Dish

Tam maak hoong

Papaya Salad

Tam maak hoong is made by shredding green papaya and mixing it with sliced tomatoes, sliced long beans, and a dressing made with fish sauce, lime juice, and chili peppers. The salad is garnished with peanuts and served cold. Tam maak hoong is a popular dish in Laos and is often served as a side dish or snack.

Asian cuisine› Southeast Asian cuisine› Lao cuisine

Salad

Origins and history

Tam maak hoong is a traditional Laotian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the northeastern region of Laos, where green papaya is a common ingredient. Today, it is a popular dish that is enjoyed throughout Laos and in neighboring countries such as Thailand and Cambodia.

Dietary considerations

Tam maak hoong is suitable for pescatarians and omnivores. It is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans as it contains fish sauce.

Variations

There are many variations of Tam maak hoong, some of which include different vegetables such as carrots or cucumbers. Some recipes also call for the addition of seafood such as shrimp or crab. Vegetarian versions of the salad can be made by omitting the fish sauce and adding soy sauce or miso.

Presentation and garnishing

Tam maak hoong is typically served in a small bowl or plate. It is garnished with peanuts and fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint. The salad should be served cold.

Tips & Tricks

To make Tam maak hoong even more flavorful, try adding some chopped garlic or ginger to the dressing. This will add a spicy and slightly sweet flavor to the salad.

Side-dishes

Tam maak hoong is often served as a side dish or snack. It pairs well with grilled meats or sticky rice. It is also a popular street food in Laos and can be found at food stalls and markets throughout the country.

Drink pairings

Tam maak hoong pairs well with light beers or white wines such as Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc. It can also be served with a cold glass of Laotian rice wine, or lao-lao.