The authentic Thai Papaya Salad recipe, also known as "Som Tum." This refreshing and flavorful dish is a classic in Thai cuisine. Please note that the spiciness level can be adjusted to your preference.

Ingredients:

For the dressing:

• 3-4 cloves of garlic
• 2-4 Thai bird's eye chilies (adjust for spice level)
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar or brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (adjust to taste)

For the salad:

• 1 medium green papaya (about 1 pound)
• 2-3 small tomatoes
• 1 cup long beans or green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped
• 2 tablespoons dried shrimp (optional)
• 2 tablespoons small dried shrimp (optional)
• 2 tablespoons crab paste (optional)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing:
2. Using a mortar and pestle, pound the garlic and Thai chilies together until they are well crushed. You can adjust the number of chilies based on your desired spice level.
3. Add palm sugar and continue pounding until it's dissolved.
4. Add fish sauce and lime juice. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust the flavors as needed – it should be a balance of sweet, sour, and salty. Set aside.
5. Prepare the Salad:
6. Peel the green papaya and cut it into thin, matchstick-like strips. You can use a julienne peeler or a knife for this. Place the papaya strips in a large mixing bowl.
7. Cut the tomatoes into thin wedges and add them to the papaya.
8. Add the long beans or green beans to the bowl.
9. Assemble the Salad:
10. Pour the dressing over the papaya and vegetables. Use a spoon or your hands to gently toss and massage the ingredients together. Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed.
11. Optional Ingredients:
12. If using dried shrimp, lightly toast them in a pan until fragrant, then crush them slightly before adding to the salad.
13. If using small dried shrimp, add them directly to the salad.
14. If using crab paste, add it to the salad and mix well.
15. Serve:
16. Transfer the salad to a serving plate.
17. Sprinkle roasted peanuts over the top of the salad.
18. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your authentic Thai Papaya Salad! Remember, you can adjust the spice level and ingredients according to your taste preferences.

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