How to Make Vietnamese Papaya Salad with Grilled Shrimp
Vietnamese Papaya Salad, known as "Gỏi đu đủ," is a refreshing and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with grilled shrimp. This recipe combines the crispness of green papaya with the smokiness of grilled shrimp, creating a wonderfully balanced meal. Below is a step-by-step guide to making this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 2 cups green papaya, shredded
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh herbs (mint, basil, or cilantro)
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
- 2 tablespoons fried shallots (optional)
For the grilled shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1-2 Thai bird chilies, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by marinating the shrimp. In a bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and lime juice. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Grill the Shrimp
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the marinated shrimp on skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand). Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the grill and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green papaya, shredded carrot, and fresh herbs. Toss well to mix the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and chopped chilies (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Pour the dressing over the papaya salad and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Transfer the salad to a serving plate.
Step 6: Serve
Top the papaya salad with the grilled shrimp. Sprinkle crushed peanuts and fried shallots on top for added flavor and texture. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Vietnamese Papaya Salad
1. Ensure your green papaya is firm and unripe for the best texture. Ripe papaya can become mushy.
2. Adjust the sweetness and spice of the dressing to suit your palate. Adding more sugar will enhance the sweetness, while more chilies can add a nice kick.
3. Experiment with different herbs to find your perfect combination, as each adds a unique flavor to the salad.
Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese Papaya Salad with Grilled Shrimp as a light appetizer or a delicious lunch option. Its vibrant flavors and textures come together beautifully, making it a standout dish in any meal.