Raw Papaya Salad Recipe – Piri Piri & Peanut Crunch

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Raw Papaya Salad Recipe – Piri Piri & Peanut Crunch

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a super refreshing, crunchy, and slightly spicy salad that’s perfect for a hot day, you have to try this Raw Papaya Salad. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a summer picnic with friends, and it was an instant hit! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy raw papaya, and the piri piri and peanut combo is just… chef’s kiss. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average salad. It’s a burst of textures and flavors – the crisp papaya, the satisfying crunch of peanuts, a little heat from the piri piri, and a tangy sweetness that just wakes up your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make, needing just 15 minutes of prep time. It’s a healthy, vibrant dish that’s perfect as a side, a light lunch, or even a snack.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious salad:

• 1 cup Grated Raw Papaya (about 200g)
• 2 teaspoon Roasted peanuts
• 0.5 teaspoon Roasted black sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon Piri Piri Powder
• 1 teaspoon Grated Raw Mango (or ½ tsp lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon Chopped coriander
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Salt (Kala Namak)
• 0.5 teaspoon Sugar
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few key ingredients to make sure you get the best results!

Raw Papaya: Selecting & Preparing
Choosing the right papaya is important. You want one that’s firm and green – not yellow or orange. It should give slightly when gently pressed, but not be mushy. To prepare, wash it well, then carefully grate it using the coarse side of a box grater.

Piri Piri Powder: Heat Level & Substitutions
Piri piri powder adds a lovely kick! The heat level can vary, so start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your preference. If you don’t have piri piri, you can substitute with cayenne pepper (start with ¼ teaspoon) or a pinch of chili flakes.

Roasted Peanuts: Regional Variations & Freshness
I prefer using roasted peanuts for that extra crunch and nutty flavor. You can find pre-roasted peanuts, but roasting them yourself really elevates the taste. In some regions of India, they even use a sprinkle of chana dal (split chickpeas) along with the peanuts!

Black Salt (Kala Namak): Flavor Profile & Uses
Don’t skip the black salt! It has a unique sulfurous aroma that adds a wonderful depth of flavor. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine and really makes this salad sing. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores.

Raw Mango vs. Lemon Juice: Balancing Tartness
Raw mango adds a beautiful fruity tartness. If you can’t find a raw mango, lemon juice works perfectly as a substitute. Just use about ½ teaspoon to start, and add more to taste.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously simple.

1. In a large bowl, combine the grated raw papaya, roasted peanuts, piri piri powder, grated raw mango (or lemon juice), chopped coriander, black salt, sugar, and regular salt.
2. Now, give everything a really good mix. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined and the papaya is evenly coated with the spices.
3. Pop the salad into the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the papaya to get nice and chilled. Trust me, this step makes a big difference!
4. Just before serving, sprinkle the roasted black sesame seeds over the salad and gently toss.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy that amazing crunch!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overmix the salad, or the papaya can become mushy.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone’s spice tolerance is different!
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Spice Level Adjustment
My friend, Priya, loves things really spicy, so she adds a finely chopped green chili to the mix. Feel free to experiment!

Vegan Adaptation
This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check your piri piri powder doesn’t contain any hidden animal products.

Gluten-Free Adaptation
This recipe is also naturally gluten-free.

Festival Adaptation (Summer/Picnic Focused)
This is perfect for summer picnics or festivals. Pack it in an airtight container with an ice pack to keep it cool and refreshing. My family always makes a big batch for our annual summer get-together!

Serving Suggestions

This salad is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Lentil soup (dal)
• Roti or naan bread

Storage Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the papaya will soften over time.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

Can I use green papaya instead of raw papaya?
Yes, green papaya and raw papaya are essentially the same thing! You can use either one.

What is the best way to roast peanuts at home for this salad?
Spread raw peanuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but I recommend assembling the salad just before serving to maintain the crunch.

What can I substitute for Piri Piri powder if I don’t have it?
Cayenne pepper or chili flakes are good substitutes. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

Is black salt essential for the authentic flavor?
While you can use regular salt, black salt really adds a unique flavor that’s characteristic of this salad. I highly recommend using it if you can find it!

How do I know when the raw papaya is ripe enough for this salad?
You want a firm, green papaya that gives slightly when pressed. Avoid papayas that are yellow or orange, as they are too ripe for this recipe.

Enjoy making this vibrant and delicious Raw Papaya Salad! I hope it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!