Som tam, a beloved Thai dish often referred to as papaya salad, is a culinary delight that is much more diverse and complex than meets the eye. One of the most popular dishes in Thailand, som tam has a rich history and numerous variations that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Originating in Northeastern Thailand, known as Isan, som tam is traditionally made by pounding or crushing sour ingredients. While papaya is commonly used in modern versions, som tam has evolved over time to include a variety of fruits and vegetables with a tart flavor. In Isan, the dish is known as tam som, showcasing the diverse ingredients and regional influences that have shaped som tam into what it is today.
Traditional som tam recipes call for an unripe papaya, as they have a bland taste compared to the sugary sweetness of ripe papayas. The mild papaya balances the flavorful som tam sauce while giving it a crunchy texture. Aside from the classic papaya version, som tam is also made with green mango, cucumber, and mixed fruits, each imparting a unique flavor profile to the dish. Popular variations of som tam include tam Thai with peanuts and dried shrimp, tam Lao with fermented fish, tam Pu with salted or pickled crab, and tam Khorat with fermented fish sauce. The versatility of som tam lies in its ability to adapt to different ingredients while retaining its signature tangy and spicy flavors.
What sets som tam apart from other dishes is its delicious dressing, which brings together the diverse ingredients and flavors into a harmonious blend. The use of fermented fish sauce, salted crab, peanuts, and other seasonings adds depth and complexity to the dish, making each bite a burst of umami goodness. The dressing, paired with fresh ingredients and expert preparation techniques, ensures that som tam is a truly tantalizing experience for the taste buds.
Eating som tam is not just about the flavors, but also the communal aspect of sharing the dish with others. In Thailand, som tam is often enjoyed as a group, with friends and family coming together to savor the delicious flavors and bond over a shared meal. The dish is best enjoyed with sticky rice, grilled or fried dishes, and spicy accompaniments like lab or nam tok, which complement the sweet and sour flavors of som tam.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic papaya version or eager to explore the myriad variations of som tam, one thing is certain – this iconic Thai dish is a culinary adventure waiting to be experienced. From the origins of Isan to the bustling streets of Chiang Mai, som tam offers a taste of Thailand’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant flavors. So, gather your friends, grab a plate of som tam, and immerse yourself in the tantalizing world of Thai cuisine.
What goes well with som tam?
The reason people eat som tam with sticky rice is because the rice’s texture can sop up the juices. The more you eat the two together, the more you want to eat both. There are other dishes that can complement the som tam flavours. The sweet and sour som tam thai goes well with lab or nam tok, which are both spicy and salty in their own ways. It can cut any fattiness as well as enhance tastiness. Grilled or fried dishes also go well with som tam. Just don’t forget to invite close friends to get ‘sap’ together and make everything taste so much better.
In Chiang Mai, where to enjoy delicious Som Tam:
When seeking out delicious Som Tam in Chiang Mai, there are two notable options to consider. Huen Phen Restaurant, a well-known dining establishment in the heart of Chiang Mai's old town, offers a variety of Northern Thai cuisine including their signature Som Tam. Open only from 11 am to 15.00, patrons can enjoy a selection of dishes alongside this flavorful papaya salad, paired with sticky rice and fried chicken for a complete meal.
Somtum House Yokkrok is another famous place, a renowned street food stall originating from Bangkok that has now opened a branch in Chiang Mai in a very nice building (near Jin Jai Market). Here, visitors can taste a range of Som Tam variations, served in the mortar. From the traditional Thai style with peanuts and dried shrimp to more adventurous options like som tum pla ra, featuring fermented fish sauce. Each dish is served fresh and flavorful, promising a satisfying culinary experience in the lively city of Chiang Mai.
No matter where you choose to indulge in this spicy and refreshing dish, you are sure to find a tasty and satisfying meal in the vibrant city of Chiang Mai.
Huen Phen Restaurant:
Rachamankha Road. Phra Singh. Chiang Mai. Open from 11am to 3pm
Sumtum House Yokkrok:
Zone A, Jing Jai Village. Assadathon Road. Chiang Mai. Tel. 094-629 1596
May 2025.
