What is the difference between Som Tum Thai and Som Tum Poo?

Som Tum Poo adds fermented crab (poo dong) and is an Isaan version — much saltier and more pungent. Som Tum Thai uses dried shrimp instead and is milder in flavour.

Can I get a vegan Som Tum Thai?

Yes — ask for it without fish sauce and dried shrimp, substituting soy sauce. Most vendors can accommodate this as 'som tum jay'.

salad

Som Tum Thai

ส้มตำไทย

Hot

Som Tum Thai is the central Thai version of the classic green papaya salad, made with dried shrimp and peanuts — subtly sweeter and less fermented than the Isaan original. Pounded fresh to order in a clay mortar, it is crunchy, sour, salty, and fiery.

Key Ingredients

green papaya
bird's eye chilli
lime juice
fish sauce
dried shrimp
peanuts
cherry tomatoes
palm sugar

Where to Try It

Street stalls throughout Bangkok and central Thailand — any market with a mortar and pestle vendor.

Tips

Specify your chilli count before the vendor starts — 'neung prik' means one chilli, much milder.
Order with sticky rice to balance the sharpness of the lime and fish sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

salad

Som Tum Thai

ส้มตำไทย

Hot

Key Ingredients

green papaya
bird's eye chilli
lime juice
fish sauce
dried shrimp
peanuts
cherry tomatoes
palm sugar

Where to Try It

Street stalls throughout Bangkok and central Thailand — any market with a mortar and pestle vendor.

Tips

Specify your chilli count before the vendor starts — 'neung prik' means one chilli, much milder.
Order with sticky rice to balance the sharpness of the lime and fish sauce.