If you don’t have Spam in your cupboard, you’re missing out! These are a collection of our self-proclaimed best spam recipes. They are versatile, quick, and irresistibly delicious.
Why Spam Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen
What Makes Spam Special?
Spam has stood the test of time, and for good reason! Created in 1937, this canned meat has earned its place as a pantry staple. Its long shelf life, affordability, and adaptability in countless recipes contribute to its popularity. Its rich, salty flavor makes it perfect for quick meals, snacks, or gourmet dishes.
Spam in Different Cultures
Spam has a unique global footprint:
- In Hawaii, Spam is affectionately called the “Hawaiian steak” and features prominently in local cuisine, from Spam Musubi to Spam fried rice.
- In South Korea, Spam is a gift-worthy delicacy and a key ingredient in dishes like budae jjigae (army stew).
- Across the Philippines, Spam is a popular breakfast item served with rice and eggs.
The Top 15 Spam Recipes You Need to Try
1. Spam Musubi
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Cooked sushi rice | 2 cups |
| Nori sheets | 4 |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
Cooking Method
- Slice Spam into thin pieces and fry until golden.
- Mix soy sauce and sugar in a bowl, then coat the Spam slices.
- Use a musubi mold to layer rice and Spam on a nori sheet, wrapping it tightly.
- Slice into serving pieces.
2. Spam Tacos
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Taco shells | 6 |
| Shredded cheese | 1 cup |
| Lettuce | 1 cup |
| Salsa | ½ cup |
Cooking Method
- Dice Spam and fry until crispy.
- Fill taco shells with Spam, lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
- Serve immediately.
3. Spam and Eggs
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Eggs | 4 |
| Cooking oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Cooking Method
- Slice and fry Spam until crisp.
- Whisk eggs, season with salt and pepper, and cook as scrambled eggs.
- Serve Spam alongside the eggs.
4. Spam Fried Rice
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Cooked rice | 3 cups |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup |
| Chopped green onions | ½ cup |
Cooking Method
- Dice Spam and fry until golden.
- Add peas and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Mix in rice, soy sauce, and green onions.
- Stir until heated through.
5. Crispy Spam Steak
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Bread crumbs | 1 cup |
| Egg, beaten | 1 |
| Flour | ½ cup |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
Cooking Method
- Slice Spam into thick steaks.
- Coat slices in flour, dip in beaten egg, and cover with breadcrumbs.
- Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy.
Elevate Your Snacking Game with Spam
6. Spam Fries
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Flour | ½ cup |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
Cooking Method
- Slice Spam into fry-shaped pieces.
- Coat lightly in flour and fry until crispy.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
7. Bacon-Wrapped Spam Bites
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Bacon strips | 10 |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
Cooking Method
- Cut Spam into cubes and wrap each piece in bacon.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
8. Spam Fritters
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Beer | ½ cup |
| Flour | 1 cup |
Cooking Method
- Mix flour and beer to form batter.
- Slice Spam, dip in batter, and fry until golden.
Spam in Main Course Delights
9. Spam Katsu Sando
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| White bread | 4 slices |
| Tonkatsu sauce | 2 tbsp |
Cooking Method
- Bread and fry Spam slices until crispy.
- Assemble sandwiches with bread, Spam, and Tonkatsu sauce.
10. Glazed Baked Spam
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup |
| Yellow mustard | 2 tbsp |
| Pineapple slices | 4 |
Cooking Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Slice Spam into thick pieces and place them in a baking dish.
- Mix brown sugar and mustard in a bowl and coat Spam with the glaze.
- Top each slice with a pineapple ring.
- Bake for 20 minutes until caramelized.
11. Fried Noodles with Spam
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Egg noodles | 8 oz |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Mixed vegetables | 1 cup |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp |
Cooking Method
- Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
- Fry diced Spam until crispy, then add vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
- Toss in noodles, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Cook until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
12. Ohana Burger
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Ground beef | ½ lb |
| Burger buns | 4 |
| Sliced pineapple | 4 rings |
| BBQ sauce | ¼ cup |
Cooking Method
- Mix ground beef and finely diced Spam; form into patties.
- Grill the patties and pineapple rings until lightly charred.
- Assemble the burger with buns, BBQ sauce, Spam patties, and pineapple.
13. Fried Spam with Potatoes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Potatoes | 4, diced |
| Cheese slices | 4 |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
Cooking Method
- Fry diced potatoes in butter until golden and tender.
- Add diced Spam and fry until crispy.
- Layer with cheese slices and let melt before serving.
14. Chicken Fried Spam
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Flour | 1 cup |
| Eggs, beaten | 2 |
| Chicken gravy | ½ cup |
Cooking Method
- Slice Spam and dredge in flour, then dip in beaten eggs.
- Fry in hot oil until golden.
- Serve with warm chicken gravy on top.
15. Spam Sandwich
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spam | 1 can |
| Bread slices | 4 |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tbsp |
| Lettuce leaves | 2 |
| Tomato slices | 2 |
Cooking Method
- Fry thin Spam slices until crisp.
- Spread mayonnaise on bread slices.
- Layer bread with Spam, lettuce, and tomato.
- Assemble and serve immediately.
Conclusion
Spam is the ultimate pantry hero, offering endless versatility and flavor. Whether you need a quick snack or a satisfying main course, these 15 recipes have you covered. You can also find options that are fancy enough to impress your guests. Try them today and discover why Spam has captured hearts (and stomachs) worldwide!
FAQs
1. Is Spam healthy to eat regularly?
Spam can be enjoyed in moderation. It’s high in sodium and fat, so balance it with other healthy ingredients like vegetables and whole grains.
2. Can I substitute Spam with other meats in these recipes?
Yes, you can use cooked ham, turkey, or tofu for a similar taste and texture.
3. Are these recipes suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Many of these recipes, such as Spam fries and Spam sandwiches, are kid-friendly and customizable.
4. Where can I buy Spam?
Spam is available in most grocery stores in the canned meat section. It can also be purchased online through major retailers.
5. How long does Spam last once opened?
Once opened, store Spam in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-5 days.
Enjoy exploring these recipes and let us know your favorite in the comments! 😊tasty.
If you enjoyed this meaty article, check out our article “15 Best Pork Steak Recipes To Try Today“.
