Recipe

Step 1: Shred the papaya (or mango or cucumber) into long, thin matchsticks.

Step 2: Using a pestle and mortar, crush the garlic, chilies and salt. Add a small handful of the papaya and the dried shrimp or shrimp paste and gently pound until some of the juices are released.

Step 3: Transfer to a bowl and stir in the rest of the ingredients, reserving some of the peanuts to sprinkle on top before serving.

Tip: The raw freshness of this dish not only gives a beautiful crunchy texture and delicious flavours but also makes it very nutritious. Surprisingly filling and very easy to prepare, it makes a great light lunch alternative to your average sandwich.

See more recipes from Natasha Edwards.

Reprinted with permission from Natasha Edwards’ Garlic: The Mighty Bulb (2012 Firefly Books).