Spicy Tamarind Shrimp and Green Papaya Salad
A vibrant and refreshing Thai-inspired salad featuring plump shrimp marinated in a zesty, sour tamarind dressing. Crisp green papaya and a medley of herbs create a complex texture and a burst of refreshing flavors perfect for a light lunch.

Prep Time
45 min
Difficulty
Hard
Servings
2
Calories
350 kcal
Instructions
- 1
Peel and devein shrimp. If using large shrimp, cut them in half. Set aside.
~5 min - 2
Peel the green papaya and julienne it into thin strips. If you can't find fresh green papaya, you can use firm, unripe papaya.
~10 min - 3
In a mortar and pestle, pound the garlic cloves and Thai chili peppers until a coarse paste forms.
~3 min - 4
Add the tamarind paste, fish sauce, palm sugar, and juice of one lime to the mortar. Pound and stir to combine into a dressing.
~2 min - 5
Add the julienned green papaya to a large bowl. Pour half of the tamarind dressing over the papaya and toss to coat.
~2 min - 6
Add the shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, and trimmed long beans to the bowl with the papaya.
~1 min - 7
Pour the remaining dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine. Ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
~1 min - 8
Garnish with roasted peanuts, fresh mint leaves, fresh cilantro leaves, and dried shrimp. Squeeze the juice of the remaining lime over the salad just before serving.
~2 min
Tips
- For a more authentic texture, use a mortar and pestle to bruise the ingredients for the dressing and to break down the long beans slightly.
- This salad is best served immediately after preparation to maintain the crispness of the papaya and other vegetables.
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