Spam Recipes
Spam is a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used in various dishes to create delicious and easy meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a unique dinner, these Spam recipes are sure to impress. Let’s dive into some creative ways to cook with Spam!
Why Cook with Spam?
Spam is not only affordable and shelf-stable, but it also has a savory flavor and a satisfying texture that can enhance many dishes. It’s perfect for quick meals and can be a lifesaver when you need to put together something tasty in a hurry.
Tips for Cooking with Spam
- Slice Evenly: For even cooking, slice Spam into uniform pieces.
- Don’t Overcook: Spam is already cooked, so you only need to heat it through and crisp it up.
- Pair with Bold Flavors: Spam pairs well with strong flavors like soy sauce, garlic, and chili.
Recipe 1: Spam Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 can Spam, diced
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the Spam, thaw the peas and carrots, and chop the onions and garlic.
- Cook the Spam: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced Spam and cook until it starts to crisp, about 5 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Eggs: Push the Spam to one side of the skillet. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until fragrant. Push the onions and garlic to the side and pour the beaten eggs into the skillet. Scramble until fully cooked.
- Combine and Cook: Add the rice, peas, and carrots to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Recipe 2: Spam Musubi
Ingredients:
- 1 can Spam, sliced into 8 pieces
- 4 cups cooked sushi rice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Nori (seaweed) sheets, cut into strips
- Plastic wrap
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spam: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce and sugar until dissolved. Marinate the Spam slices in the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Spam: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Spam slices until caramelized and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Assemble Musubi: Place a slice of Spam on a piece of plastic wrap. Top with a layer of rice and press down to mold the rice around the Spam. Wrap a strip of nori around the rice and Spam, sealing with a dab of water.
- Serve: Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve warm or at room temperature.
Recipe 3: Spam and Potato Hash
Ingredients:
- 1 can Spam, diced
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Potatoes: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 10 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Spam: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the diced Spam and cook until everything is heated through and the Spam is crispy, about 5 more minutes.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Recipe 4: Spam and Egg Breakfast Sandwich
Ingredients:
- 1 can Spam, sliced
- 4 large eggs
- 4 slices of cheese (optional)
- 4 English muffins or bagels, split and toasted
- Butter or cooking spray for the pan
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Spam: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Spam slices until crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Cook the Eggs: In the same skillet, cook the eggs to your liking (scrambled, fried, or over-easy). Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Place a slice of Spam on the bottom half of each toasted English muffin or bagel. Top with an egg and a slice of cheese if desired. Cover with the top half of the muffin or bagel.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot.
Conclusion
Spam is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various creative and delicious recipes. These beginner-friendly recipes are quick to make and perfect for any meal of the day. Enjoy exploring the flavors and convenience that Spam brings to your kitchen!