Laos, Fresh Papaya Salad

 

Although this is not my first time having papaya salad in Laos, this is the first time I get an education on how it is made.

 

At the night market in Luang Prabang, I chose peppers from a trusting local that tells me they are not too hot.

 

 

 

From my earlier sampling of papaya salad, I know it is traditionally made hot and while I like my food with a kick, I don't want to set off a 5 Alarm fire on top of my head.

Using some shrimp sauce, eggplant, tomatoes, lime juice and other secret ingredients that are ground up in a ceramic bowl, I watch as this wonderful salad comes together.

 

For about US$1.50, it is a nice and delicious treat.