Maltese-Style Som Tam Khai Khem

Ingredients

In this Maltese adaptation, the traditional Thai Som Tam Khai Khem is enhanced with the addition of salted eggs, a popular ingredient in Maltese cuisine. The salted eggs provide a unique and creamy flavor that complements the tanginess of the lime and the spiciness of the chili. This adaptation adds a touch of Maltese flair to the original dish, creating a fusion of flavors that is both exciting and delicious. We alse have the original recipe for Som tam khai khem, so you can check it out.

• 1 green papaya, shredded 1 green papaya, shredded
• 2 salted eggs, sliced 2 salted eggs, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar) 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 2 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped 2 Thai bird's eye chilies, finely chopped

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 8g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the shredded green papaya, carrot, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and chopped chilies until the sugar has dissolved.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the papaya mixture and toss well to combine.
4. 4.
   Gently fold in the sliced salted eggs.
5. 5.
   Sprinkle the salad with fresh cilantro, mint leaves, and crushed peanuts.
6. 6.
   Serve immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Salted eggs — If you can't find salted eggs, you can substitute with hard-boiled eggs and add a pinch of salt to the dressing for a similar flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier salad, add more Thai bird's eye chilies.
• Adjust the sweetness and sourness of the dressing according to your taste preferences.
• To make the salad more filling, add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken.
• For a refreshing twist, serve the salad chilled.
• Experiment with different herbs like Thai basil or lemongrass for added flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Maltese-Style Som Tam Khai Khem as a light lunch or as a side dish to complement grilled meats or seafood. It pairs well with crusty bread or Maltese ftira.

Presentation advice

Present the salad in a large serving bowl, garnished with fresh herbs and crushed peanuts. The vibrant colors of the shredded papaya and vegetables will make the dish visually appealing.