Laotian Spicy Green Papaya Salad (Tum Mark Hoong)

Laotian spicy green papaya salad called tum mark hoong is an awesome side dish. It is refreshing, spicy, a little sweet and salty and of course a bit savory. Yet another Lao dish that gets it just right to please the palate, with a balance of flavors. Normally they eat this very spicy. You can adjust the heat to your tolerance as Thai chilies are pretty darn hot. Also be sure to venture to your local Asian store to get a real green papaya. It is not the same as an unripe papaya. A true green papaya is a fruit all its own. You will love this addictive salad, you can serve it with some grilled chicken, leafy vegetables and of course sticky rice for a delicious Laotian meal.