Definition & Meaning of "som tam"

What is "som tam"?

Som tam is a popular Thai salad that is made from shredded unripe papaya, carrots, tomatoes, and green beans, which are mixed together with a spicy dressing made from fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and chili peppers. The salad is often garnished with roasted peanuts and dried shrimp, and can be served with sticky rice or grilled meat. It can be made in various levels of spiciness, depending on personal preference, and is often considered a healthy and low-calorie dish due to its emphasis on fresh vegetables.