• Step 1: Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, shred the peeled green papaya into long, thin strips. Place the shredded papaya in a large mixing bowl.
• Step 2: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, roasted peanuts, fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar to the bowl. Using your hands or a pair of tongs, gently toss the ingredients together until well combined.
• Step 3: Add the sliced Thai chilies, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves. Toss the salad again to evenly distribute the flavors.
• Step 4: If desired, fold in the cooked shrimp or tofu. Gently mix to incorporate the protein without breaking up the delicate papaya strands.
• Step 5: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more fish sauce for saltiness, lime juice for sourness, or palm sugar for sweetness to balance the flavors to your liking.