ส้มตำไทย

Explanation

ส้มตำไทย is the name of a particular variety of som tam. Shredded green papaya is pounded and mixed in a mortar with ingredients such as chili, garlic, lime, fish sauce, sugar, and tomatoes. Peanuts and dried shrimp are also common. ตำ means “to pound in a mortar,” while ไทย identifies this as the Thai-style version. The full expression functions as a single dish name. When ordering, หนึ่งจาน means “one plate” and หนึ่งที่ means “one serving.” The exact ingredients and balance of flavors vary from one restaurant to another.

Usage

This term is commonly used at Thai restaurants and street-food stalls to specify this variety of som tam. When ordering, it can be followed by requests such as ไม่เผ็ด “no chili,” เผ็ดน้อย “mild,” or ไม่ใส่ถั่ว “no peanuts.”

Caution

This is not a general term for every kind of som tam in Thailand; it names a specific variety. It normally contains chili, so state your preferred spice level when ordering. Because peanuts, dried shrimp, and fish sauce are common ingredients, check with the restaurant if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

1 Thai-style green papaya salad synonyms

• ส้มตำ

  sôm tam som tam (spicy green papaya salad)

  ส้มตำ is the general name for the pounded salad, usually made with shredded green papaya. ส้มตำไทย specifically identifies the sweeter Thai-style variety, which commonly includes peanuts and dried shrimp.