Som Tum

Som Tum is a vibrant and iconic Thai salad made from shredded unripe green papaya, pounded in a mortar and pestle with a dynamic dressing of lime, fish sauce, chili, and palm sugar. It typically includes ingredients like long beans, cherry tomatoes, peanuts, and dried shrimp, creating a signature balance of sour, salty, spicy, and sweet flavors. Originating from the Isan region of Thailand, it is a beloved street food enjoyed worldwide.

🍳 View the full Som Tum recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Som Tum is generally low in fat and moderate in carbohydrates, primarily from the papaya and added sugar, while offering a good amount of fiber and Vitamin C. A typical serving ranges from 150 to 250 calories, depending on the amount of sugar, peanuts, and dried shrimp used.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	150 kcal
Protein	3 g
Carbs	25 g
Fat	5 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	15 g
Sodium	800 mg
Vitamin C	45 mg
Vitamin A	250 mcg
Potassium	350 mg
Manganese	0.5 mg
Folate	30 mcg
Vitamin K	15 mcg
Iron	1.2 mg
Calcium	50 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The dish is culturally significant for its communal preparation and the rhythmic sound of the mortar and pestle, which is a hallmark of Thai street food culture. Nutritionally, the use of green (unripe) papaya is unique, as it contains the digestive enzyme papain, which can aid in protein digestion.