Discover the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with our Papaya Salad (Tam Mak Hoong) recipe. This authentic Thai dish features shredded green papaya, juicy tomatoes, crunchy peanuts, and fiery chilies, creating a refreshing and spicy salad that's perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and bursting with bold flavors, this salad is a must-try for fans of Thai food. Learn how to prepare this delicious, zesty dish with our step-by-step guide.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups shredded green papaya

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts

- 2-3 Thai bird chilies (adjust to taste)

- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)

- 2 tablespoons lime juice

- 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/2 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)

- Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  - Shred the green papaya using a grater or a food processor.

  - Halve the cherry tomatoes.

  - If using, cut the green beans into 1-inch pieces.

Make the Dressing:

  - In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

Combine the Salad:

  - In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded papaya, cherry tomatoes, and green beans (if using).

  - Crush the Thai bird chilies using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon, and add to the bowl.

Mix and Toss:

  - Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Add the roasted peanuts and gently mix them in.

Garnish and Serve:

  - Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy immediately for the freshest flavors!

This Papaya Salad (Tam Mak Hoong) is a delightful combination of spicy, tangy, and crunchy elements that will surely please your taste buds.

Nutritional Values:

Green Papaya:

   - Calories: 43

   - Carbohydrates: 10.8g

   - Protein: 0.5g

   - Fat: 0.1g

   - Fiber: 1.7g

   - Vitamin C: 60.9mg (68% DV)

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.

   - Contains papain, an enzyme that aids in digestion.

   - Low in calories and high in fiber, promoting healthy digestion.

Cherry Tomatoes:

   - Calories: 18

   - Carbohydrates: 3.9g

   - Protein: 0.9g

   - Fat: 0.2g

   - Fiber: 1.2g

   - Vitamin C: 14mg (16% DV)

Benefits:

   - Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

   - Good source of vitamin C and potassium, supporting heart health and overall wellness.

Roasted Peanuts:

   - Calories: 567

   - Carbohydrates: 16.1g

   - Protein: 25.8g

   - Fat: 49.2g

   - Fiber: 8.5g

Benefits:

   - High in protein and healthy fats, contributing to satiety and muscle maintenance.

   - Rich in niacin (vitamin B3), which supports energy production and skin health.

   - Contains antioxidants like resveratrol that support cardiovascular health.

Thai Bird Chilies:

   - Calories: 40

   - Carbohydrates: 9g

   - Protein: 2g

   - Fat: 0.4g

   - Fiber: 1.5g

Benefits:

   - High in capsaicin, which has been linked to pain relief and improved metabolism.

   - Rich in vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.

Fish Sauce:

   - Calories: 59

   - Carbohydrates: 0.9g

   - Protein: 10.3g

   - Fat: 0.2g

Benefits:

   - Provides a source of protein and essential amino acids.

   - Adds umami flavor to dishes without excessive calories.

Lime Juice:

   - Calories: 30

   - Carbohydrates: 10.5g

   - Protein: 0.7g

   - Fat: 0.1g

   - Vitamin C: 29.1mg (32% DV)

Benefits:

   - High in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports skin health.

   - Provides antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.

Palm Sugar:

   - Calories: 380

   - Carbohydrates: 96g

   - Protein: 0.4g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

   - Contains small amounts of minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron.

   - Has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars, which may have a gentler impact on blood sugar levels.

Garlic:

   - Calories: 149

   - Carbohydrates: 33g

   - Protein: 6.4g

   - Fat: 0.5g

   - Fiber: 2.1g

Benefits:

   - Contains allicin, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

   - Supports cardiovascular health and immune function.

Green Beans (optional):

   - Calories: 31

   - Carbohydrates: 7g

   - Protein: 1.8g

   - Fat: 0.2g

   - Fiber: 3.4g

Benefits:

   - High in fiber, which supports digestive health.

   - Contains vitamins A, C, and K, which contribute to overall health.

Cilantro (for garnish):

   - Calories: 23

   - Carbohydrates: 3.7g

   - Protein: 2.1g

   - Fat: 0.5g

   - Fiber: 2.8g

Benefits:

   - Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and K.

   - May help detoxify the body and support digestive health.

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific brand or variety of each ingredient.