How to Make Vietnamese Papaya Salad with Chili and Peanuts
Vietnamese papaya salad, known as "Gỏi đu đủ," is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the crunchiness of green papaya, the heat of chili, and the rich flavor of peanuts. This salad is not only a popular street food item in Vietnam but also a delightful addition to your meals. Follow this guide to learn how to make this exquisite salad at home.
Ingredients
To prepare Vietnamese papaya salad with chili and peanuts, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium green papaya
- 1 large carrot
- 1-2 red chilies (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 2-3 tablespoons roasted peanuts, crushed
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Fresh herbs (mint and cilantro), for garnish
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Papaya and Carrot
Start by peeling the green papaya and carrot. Use a julienne peeler or a sharp knife to cut the papaya and carrot into thin strips. If you have a mandoline, this can help achieve uniformity in thickness.
Step 2: Soak the Vegetables
Once you have the papaya and carrot strips, place them in a bowl of cold water mixed with a little salt to help maintain their crunchiness. Allow them to soak for about 15 minutes, then drain and dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, mix the lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a balanced dressing that combines sour, salty, and sweet flavors.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained papaya and carrot strips. Finely chop the red chilies (remove seeds for less heat) and add them to the bowl. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to ensure everything is well coated.
Step 5: Add Peanuts
Sprinkle the crushed roasted peanuts on top of the salad. You can reserve some for garnish. Mix lightly to blend the flavors while keeping some crunch from the peanuts.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the papaya salad to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh mint and cilantro leaves, along with any remaining crushed peanuts on top. This salad is best served fresh, but it can also be refrigerated for a couple of hours before serving. Enjoy it as a refreshing appetizer or a perfect side dish for grilled meats.
Conclusion
Vietnamese papaya salad with chili and peanuts is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes for a healthy and vibrant addition to any meal. Its combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing will surely impress your family and friends. Try making this dish at home and experience the authentic taste of Vietnam!