As the temperature rises, our cravings for light and refreshing meals also increase. One ingredient that fits the bill perfectly is green papaya, a staple in many Asian cuisines. Green papayas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamin C and potassium. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of green papayas. From salads to soups, curries to stir-fries, and even smoothies, there’s something for everyone.
From traditional dishes like Thai Som Tum and Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad with Beef, to modern twists like Green Papaya Smoothie with Lime and Mint and Green Papaya Chips with Chili Salt, these recipes will transport you to the tropical islands of Southeast Asia. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, green papayas are an excellent addition to your summer culinary repertoire.
Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum)
A refreshing and spicy salad that combines the crunch of green papaya with the tanginess of tomatoes, the sweetness of chilies, and the savory flavor of peanuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded green papaya
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mortar and pestle, combine papaya, tomatoes, cilantro, peanuts, garlic, ginger, and chilies.
2. Pound the mixture with the pestle until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. Add fish sauce and lime juice; pound until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Papaya and Carrot Slaw
This slaw is a perfect combination of crunchy and tangy, made with green papaya, carrots, and a hint of spice. It’s a great accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and grated
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated green papaya, carrots, and red cabbage.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce (if using), and ginger.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy Green Papaya Stir-Fry
This spicy green papaya stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the tanginess of green papaya with the spiciness of chili peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium green papaya, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed or 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, and crushed chilies (or chili flakes); stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
3. Add sliced green papaya; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Papaya and Shrimp Soup
This vibrant soup combines the freshness of green papaya with succulent shrimp, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for a light and revitalizing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups fish stock
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine mixed vegetables, green papaya, shrimp, fish stock, coconut milk, fish sauce, and ginger.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad with Beef
A refreshing and flavorful Vietnamese-inspired salad that combines the crunch of green papaya, the savory flavor of beef, and the spicy kick of chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and grated
– 250g grilled beef (rare or medium-rare), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated green papaya, sliced beef, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and chili flakes.
2. Toss until all ingredients are well combined and the flavors have melded together.
3. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top of the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Papaya and Mango Salad
This sweet and tangy salad combines the crunch of green papaya with the juicy sweetness of mango, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and diced
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed (for added heat)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the green papaya and mango.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top.
3. Squeeze the lime juice evenly over the salad, and season with salt to taste.
4. If desired, add crushed dried red chilies for an extra kick of heat.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Green Papaya Curry with Coconut Milk
Discover the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this creamy and tangy curry, featuring green papaya as the star ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green papaya, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add green papaya; cook until slightly tender (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let curries cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Green Papaya and Chicken Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines the crunch of green papaya with the richness of chicken, all wrapped up in a flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as Thai basil and cilantro)
– 2 medium green papayas, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add green papaya, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and chili flakes. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until papaya is tender-crisp.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry for another minute to combine with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with mixed greens if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Green Papaya Kimchi
Kimchi, a traditional Korean side dish, gets a refreshing twist with the addition of green papaya. This spicy and sour condiment is perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and diced
– 2 cups Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine green papaya, chili flakes, fish sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Mix well.
2. Add chopped scallions and mix again.
3. Pack the kimchi mixture into a jar or container, pressing down firmly to eliminate air pockets.
4. Leave at room temperature for 1-2 days to ferment, then refrigerate.
Cooking Time: None (fermentation time: 1-2 days)
Green Papaya and Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it an ideal side dish for any meal. With the crunch of cucumbers and the slight bitterness of green papaya, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
• 2 medium-sized green papayas
• 4-6 fresh cucumbers (depending on size)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Peel the green papayas and slice them into thin strips.
2. Slice the cucumbers into similar-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the papaya and cucumber slices.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro, lime juice, grated ginger, salt, and pepper over the salad.
5. If desired, add sriracha sauce for an extra kick.
6. Toss gently to combine all the flavors.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This is a raw salad recipe, so simply prepare and serve.
Green Papaya Smoothie with Lime and Mint
This tropical smoothie is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring the unique taste of green papaya. With the added zing of lime juice and freshness of mint, this refreshing drink is ideal for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– Handful of fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine green papaya, lime juice, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the yogurt and blend until well combined.
3. Add the cold water and blend until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Stir in the fresh mint leaves.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, with ice cubes if preferred.
Cooking Time: None
Green Papaya and Tofu Stir-Fry
This refreshing stir-fry combines the crunch of green papaya with the creaminess of tofu, all wrapped up in a flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium green papaya, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, and green papaya. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the papaya is tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked tofu, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Papaya and Peanut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tangy flavor of green papaya with the creamy richness of peanuts, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded green papaya (available at Asian markets or online)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded green papaya and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, mix together roasted peanuts and lime juice until well combined.
3. Add the peanut mixture to the papaya mixture and toss to coat.
4. If using fish sauce, add it to taste and stir well.
5. Season with salt as needed.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Green Papaya and Pork Belly Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the tanginess of green papaya with the richness of pork belly, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and diced
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 cups pork or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add pork belly pieces; cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add green papaya, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.
5. Pour in broth and fish sauce (if using); bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Green Papaya and Crab Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of green papaya with the sweetness of crab meat, perfect for a light and flavorful meal or snack. With its tangy dressing and pop of color from the fresh herbs, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and julienned
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo or claw)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine green papaya, crab meat, cilantro, and scallions.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Add fish sauce, salt, and pepper; toss again to coat.
4. Garnish with grated ginger, if using.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Green Papaya Chips with Chili Salt
Discover the addictive flavor of green papaya chips seasoned with a spicy kick of chili salt. This simple recipe is perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green papayas
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
1. Peel the green papayas and slice them into thin rounds.
2. In a bowl, mix together chili flakes and sea salt.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the papaya slices in batches until they turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
5. Remove the chips from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle the chili salt mixture evenly over the warm papaya chips.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Green Papaya and Pineapple Salsa
This vibrant salsa is a perfect combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, made with the crunch of green papaya, juicy pineapple, and a hint of chili pepper. Serve it as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced green papaya
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine green papaya, pineapple, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and garlic.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Green Papaya and Lemongrass Soup
This vibrant soup is a staple of Southeast Asian cuisine, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a revitalizing boost. With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and aroma of lemongrass, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya (about 2 lbs), peeled and chopped into small pieces
– 4 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine papaya, lemongrass, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the papaya is tender.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
3. Stir in coconut cream and fish sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the summer heat with these refreshing green papaya recipes! From classic salads like Thai Green Papaya Salad and Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad with Beef, to spicy stir-fries and soups, there’s something for everyone. Try combining green papaya with carrots and shrimp for a crunchy slaw, or blend it into a zesty smoothie with lime and mint. For a change of pace, enjoy the creamy richness of Green Papaya Curry or the savory flavors of Green Papaya and Chicken Stir-Fry. There are 18 recipes in total to keep your taste buds cool and satisfied all summer long!