Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum)

Step 1: Place the peanuts in a mortar and pestle. Pound lightly until they break into large pieces, not powder. Transfer them to a bowl.

Step 2: Place the garlic and chillies in the mortar. Pound into a paste. Add the dried shrimp and pound to crush it; there is no need to grind it into a paste.

Step 3: Stir the palm sugar, lime juice and fish sauce into the garlic, chilli and shrimp mixture until the sugar dissolves. Pour the dressing into a large bowl.

Step 4: Add the snake beans to the mortar, working in batches if needed. Pound to bruise, split and soften them, then add them to the dressing.

Step 5: Take handfuls of tomatoes, crush them with your hands and add them to the bowl.

Step 6: Add the shredded papaya and three-quarters of the peanuts. Toss well with two wooden spoons or tongs.

Step 7: Once everything is coated in the dressing, immediately pile the salad onto plates. Spoon some dressing over the top; a little dressing will remain in the bowl. Garnish with Thai basil leaves and the remaining peanuts. Serve immediately.