As summer approaches, our thoughts turn to light, refreshing meals that will keep us cool and satisfied. One ingredient that’s perfect for hot weather is green papaya – a slightly sweet and tangy fruit that adds depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. From spicy salads to creamy soups, we’ve rounded up 18 flavorful recipes that showcase the best of what green papaya has to offer.
In this article, we’ll explore the many uses of green papaya in summer cooking. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy salad or a hearty stew to warm up on a chilly evening, we’ve got you covered with our collection of innovative and delicious recipes. So grab your blender, sharpen your knife, and get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia like never before.
Spicy Green Papaya Salad with Peanuts
This refreshing Thai-inspired salad combines the crunch of peanuts with the spicy kick of chilies and the tanginess of green papaya. A perfect blend of flavors and textures to brighten up any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded green papaya
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded green papaya, chopped peanuts, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, mix together fish sauce, lime juice, and minced garlic.
3. Pour the dressing over the papaya mixture and toss to combine.
4. Add chopped chilies and toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thai-Style Green Papaya Som Tum
This classic Thai dish, Som Tum, is a refreshing and bold papaya salad that combines the crunch of green papaya with the pungency of chilies, garlic, and fish sauce. A perfect condiment to accompany grilled meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and shredded
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mortar and pestle, combine garlic, chilies, and salt. Pound until well mixed.
2. Add papaya, fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar. Pound until the ingredients are well combined and the papaya is slightly softened.
3. Stir in peanuts or cashews.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Green Papaya and Shrimp Stir-Fry
A zesty and flavorful stir-fry that combines the crunch of green papaya with succulent shrimp, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the diced green papaya and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly softened.
5. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions (if desired). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad with Beef Jerky
This recipe combines the classic Vietnamese green papaya salad with a savory and chewy beef jerky, creating a unique fusion of flavors and textures. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium green papaya, peeled and shredded
– 1/2 cup beef jerky, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste
– 1 chili pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded green papaya, beef jerky, cilantro, mint leaves, and garlic.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the papaya mixture and toss to combine.
4. Add salt to taste and adjust as needed.
5. Top with thinly sliced chili pepper.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Green Papaya and Carrot Slaw with Lime Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the crunch of green papaya and carrots with a zesty lime dressing, perfect for topping tacos or grilled meats. The perfect blend of flavors and textures to add some tropical flair to your meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium green papaya, peeled and grated
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the green papaya and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the papaya-carrot mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro if desired.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Green Papaya Soup with Coconut Milk
A refreshing and creamy soup that combines the unique flavor of green papaya with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green papaya, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chopped green papaya and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Green Papaya and Mango Salad with Chili Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of green papaya, the sweetness of mango, and the spiciness of chili peppers. Perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 small green papaya (about 1 pound), peeled and grated
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated green papaya, diced mango, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped chili peppers, fish sauce, and lime juice.
3. Pour the chili dressing over the papaya mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Green Papaya Curry with Tofu
This vibrant curry is a twist on the traditional Thai green papaya salad, incorporating crispy tofu for added protein and texture. The combination of tangy green papaya, creamy coconut milk, and savory spices makes for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 small green papaya, peeled and diced
• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
2. In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and curry paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add diced papaya, coconut milk, water or broth, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well.
4. Simmer the curry for 10-12 minutes or until the papaya is tender.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Green Papaya and Chicken Adobo
This classic Filipino dish combines the tangy sweetness of green papaya with the savory flavors of chicken adobo, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 medium green papaya, peeled and cut into thin strips
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, water, fish sauce (if using), garlic, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add green papaya strips to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until papaya is tender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Papaya and Cucumber Refresher Salad
This vibrant salad is a perfect blend of tropical flavors and refreshing crunch, making it an ideal side dish or light lunch for hot summer days. With its unique combination of sweet and tangy notes, this recipe will surely quench your thirst for something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium green papaya, peeled and diced
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine papaya and cucumber.
2. Sprinkle mint leaves and scallions over the top.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Enjoy your refreshing Green Papaya and Cucumber Refresher Salad!
Green Papaya and Pineapple Salsa
This refreshing salsa combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with the spicy kick of green papaya, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine papaya, pineapple, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle salt and black pepper 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: None
Green Papaya and Pork Belly Stew
This hearty stew combines the sweetness of green papaya with the richness of pork belly, making for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and cubed
– 500g pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
2. Add pork belly and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add green papaya cubes, chicken broth, and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring stew to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for 1 hour, or until pork is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Green Papaya and Avocado Salad with Sesame Dressing
This Thai-inspired salad combines the crunch of green papaya with the creaminess of avocado, all tied together with a nutty sesame dressing. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium green papaya, peeled and grated
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as mint, basil, and cilantro)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated green papaya, diced avocado, and mixed greens.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame seeds, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the papaya mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Green Papaya and Shrimp Ceviche
This refreshing ceviche combines the tangy flavor of green papaya with succulent shrimp, perfect for a light and zesty appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe green papaya, peeled and diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced green papaya and shrimp.
2. Pour in the lime juice and mix well to coat the ingredients evenly.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro and jalapeño pepper.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Green Papaya and Lemongrass Infused Soup
This refreshing soup combines the unique flavors of green papaya, lemongrass, and aromatic spices to create a revitalizing and comforting meal. Perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green papaya chunks
– 4 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine green papaya, lemongrass, onion, and garlic.
2. Add cumin, turmeric, and salt; stir to combine.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain soup through a fine-mesh sieve into bowls; discard solids.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Green Papaya and Coconut Smoothie
This vibrant smoothie combines the unique flavor of green papaya with the creamy richness of coconut, making it a perfect drink for warm weather. With its invigorating taste and numerous health benefits, this refreshing beverage is sure to become your new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized green papaya, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup young coconut water
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped green papaya, coconut water, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in just 2-3 minutes of blending time.
Green Papaya and Chickpea Curry
This creamy curry combines the sweetness of green papaya with the nuttiness of chickpeas, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its rich flavor profile and vibrant color, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water or coconut milk (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced green papaya and chickpeas. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the papaya is tender.
5. Add water or coconut milk (if using). Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Papaya and Smoked Fish Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of green papaya with the rich flavor of smoked fish, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 large green papaya, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup smoked fish (such as trout or mackerel), flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cashews for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grated green papaya, flaked smoked fish, chopped cilantro, lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped peanuts or cashews.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is best served chilled, making it perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Summary
Get ready to beat the summer heat with these refreshing green papaya recipes! From spicy salads to creamy soups and savory stir-fries, we’ve got you covered. Try our Spicy Green Papaya Salad with Peanuts or Thai-Style Green Papaya Som Tum for a flavorful start. For something new, try our Green Papaya and Shrimp Stir-Fry or Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad with Beef Jerky. Or, cool down with a refreshing Green Papaya and Carrot Slaw with Lime Dressing. Whatever your taste, we’ve got 18 delicious green papaya recipes to spice up your summer meals!
