Som Tam in Phuket
Som Tam (Somtum) is probably one of the cornerstones of Thai Cuisine and it comes in various versions, but the main ingredients in the Som Tam recipe will almost always include grated green papaya with fish sauce, and lime juice, chillies, dry shrimps, green beans and peanuts.
Som Tum Tai is the most simple form and popular variations are the Som Tum Poo with salted black crabs and Som Tum Kai Kem, prepared with salted eggs. It does come in countless recipes, some of which can be really pungent and extremely spicy, but the more you eat the more you will love it.
It might surprise you the first time but you should really try. Ask for ‘Som Tam Thai’ and mention ‘Mai Pet’ (not spicy) as it can be prepared really hot in local southern restaurants. It is excellent to eat with Kao Niao (sticky rice) or even Kanom Jeen (cold rice noodles).
Born in France a long long time ago, I started to travel the world early until I settled in Phuket in 1994. For the past 30 years, my passion for photography and my curiosity have taken me to every corner of Phuket, Bangkok and everywhere I could go in Thailand. My goal is to share my discoveries, photos and tips to help travellers plan their holidays by making Phuket 101 as easy as possible to use for everyone!