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Once the seasonings are mixed, the herbs and vegetables are added. Using gloved hands or a gentle massage helps bruise the tomatoes and papaya, enabling the dressing to infuse thoroughly. The final step involves a gentle pound and flip — bruising the papaya to absorb the seasoned dressing fully, resulting in a luscious, aromatic salad.
Substitutions and Variations
For those without access to green papaya, alternatives include crunchy vegetables like broccoli stems, carrots, cucumber, or purple cabbage. These options mimic the texture and can be seasoned similarly for a satisfying experience. The recipe's versatility means it can be adapted for ingredient availability without sacrificing flavor.