Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 20 mouth-watering Spam recipes, each infused with the bold flavors and spices of Asia. From classic dishes like Spam fried rice and musubi to more adventurous creations like Spam ramen and okonomiyaki, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these Spam-based recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And who knows – you might just discover a new favorite dish! In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across Asia, exploring the rich flavors and textures of countries like Japan, Korea, China, and more.
From savory stir-fries to sweet and sour curries, these Spam recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and indulge in the delicious world of Asian-inspired Spam dishes!
Spam Fried Rice with Vegetables
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and filling meal by combining it with Spam, vegetables, and a hint of soy sauce. This recipe is perfect for using up day-old rice and adding some excitement to your usual lunch or dinner routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can Spam, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked Spam; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Spam Musubi with Teriyaki Glaze
This classic Hawaiian snack gets a sweet and savory twist with the addition of teriyaki glaze, elevating the humble Spam musubi to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed sheets
– Teriyaki glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the Spam into cubes and pan-fry until crispy, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat and spread a thin layer of cooked rice onto it, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place 2-3 pieces of fried Spam on top of the rice.
5. Drizzle teriyaki glaze over the Spam and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
6. Roll the nori sheet into a compact musubi shape.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Kimchi Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the salty sweetness of Spam with the spicy kick of kimchi, creating a flavorful and easy-to-make stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, kimchi, and cooked Spam back into the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili flakes for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spam Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
Elevate your ramen game with this savory and satisfying dish featuring Spam, soft-boiled eggs, and a rich tonkotsu broth. This recipe is a perfect blend of Japanese-inspired flavors and American comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of tonkotsu broth (or store-bought)
– 2 soft-boiled eggs
– Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large pot, bring the tonkotsu broth to a simmer.
3. Add the sliced Spam to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, cook the soft-boiled eggs by submerging them in boiling water for 6-7 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath.
5. To assemble the dish, place cooked noodles in a bowl, add sliced Spam, and top with a soft-boiled egg.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spam and Shrimp Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese street food, typically made with savory ingredients like cabbage, pork, and seafood. In this recipe, we add Spam for an American twist and succulent shrimp for added flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Okonomiyaki mix (or substitute with 1 cup of all-purpose flour)
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake or dry white wine
– 2 cups thinly sliced cabbage
– 6 ounces Spam, diced
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Okonomiyaki sauce, for serving (optional)
– Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Whisk together Okonomiyaki mix and water to make the batter.
2. Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Push the cabbage aside; add another tablespoon of oil if necessary.
5. Add the Spam and shrimp; cook until the Spam is crispy and the shrimp are pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Mix in the soy sauce, sake or wine, and batter.
7. Combine all ingredients together and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Serve with Okonomiyaki sauce and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Spam Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
Transform the humble can of Spam into a Korean-inspired masterpiece with this unique take on bibimbap. This fusion dish combines the savory, sweet, and spicy flavors of gochujang sauce with crispy Spam, mixed vegetables, and a perfectly cooked fried egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced
– 2 cups of mixed vegetables ( bean sprouts, shiitake mushrooms, zucchini, carrots)
– 1 cup of cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons of gochujang sauce
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the white rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat a non-stick pan with sesame oil and cook the sliced Spam until crispy.
3. Add mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang sauce, soy sauce, and salt.
5. Create a well in the rice and add the cooked Spam and vegetable mixture.
6. Pour the gochujang sauce over the filling and top with a fried egg.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Egg Breakfast Banh Mi
Start your day with a twist on the classic Vietnamese sandwich, featuring crispy Spam, scrambled eggs, and fresh herbs on a soft baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots (such as daikon)
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 soft baguette, cut into 3-4 inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. In a non-stick pan, cook the Spam strips over medium heat until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Butter the baguette pieces and toast until lightly browned.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on each toasted baguette piece, followed by a slice of Spam, a spoonful of scrambled eggs, some chopped cilantro, and pickled carrots.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Tofu Mapo Tofu
This recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with the spicy, numbing goodness of Sichuan mapo tofu. The result is a unique and delicious dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add the garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, chili bean paste, and rice vinegar. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the tofu and stir-fry until it’s coated in the sauce and slightly browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the Spam to the wok and stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Sushi Rolls with Avocado
Combine the savory flavor of Spam with the creaminess of avocado and the crunch of sushi rice for a surprisingly delicious roll. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 cup of cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place a few slices of Spam and avocado in the middle of the rice.
4. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
5. Serve with soy sauce and sesame oil for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
Spam and Pineapple Fried Rice
This recipe combines the classic Hawaiian flavors of Spam and pineapple into a delicious fried rice dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 slices Spam, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, peas and carrots, and cooked rice. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until combined.
4. Add the diced pineapple, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pineapple is caramelized.
5. Return the Spam to the pan and stir-fry for 1 minute to combine with the rice mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the humble can of Spam with crisp cabbage and savory seasonings to create a quick and easy stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and minced garlic to the pan. Cook until the cabbage is tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return the cooked Spam to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Scallion Pancakes
These crispy and savory pancakes combine the rich flavors of Spam with the pungency of scallions, making for a unique snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add diced Spam, chopped scallions, and beaten egg to the dry mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add vegetable oil and water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium-high heat. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip and cook for another minute, until golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spam and Udon Noodle Soup
This Spam and Udon Noodle Soup is a unique twist on traditional Japanese noodle soups. The addition of Spam adds a salty, savory flavor that complements the chewy udon noodles and rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced
– 200g udon noodles
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken stock)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine dashi broth, soy sauce, sake (if using), and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add sliced Spam and cook for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Add cooked udon noodles to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Sweet Potato Curry
This unique curry recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a deliciously bold and aromatic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced Spam and cook until browned.
4. Add sweet potatoes and stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spam and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory goodness of Spam with the tender, slightly sweet flavor of bok choy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups of bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced Spam and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned.
3. Add the chopped bok choy and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the bok choy is tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and a pinch of salt. Pour the mixture over the Spam and bok choy.
5. Stir-fry everything together for 1 minute, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spam and Garlic Fried Noodles
A flavorful twist on traditional fried noodles, this recipe combines the savory goodness of Spam with aromatic garlic and a hint of soy sauce. Perfect as a quick and easy weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 2 slices Spam, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced Spam and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove Spam from the pan and set aside. Leave any excess grease behind.
4. Add minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until noodles are well coated with the sauce.
6. Return Spam to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Spam and Mushroom Hot Pot
Spam and Mushroom Hot Pot: A Hearty and Savory Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the rich flavor of Spam with the earthy taste of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a savory hot pot. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the Spam and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, water, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the Spam is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
9. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spam and Sesame Rice Balls
These crispy rice balls filled with savory Spam and nutty sesame are a unique twist on traditional Japanese onigiri. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup Spam, diced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced Spam and cook until crispy, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Combine the cooked rice, soy sauce, and salt and pepper to taste in a large bowl.
4. Divide the rice mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired ball size.
5. Flatten each portion into a disk shape. Place a spoonful of Spam mixture in the center of each disk.
6. Fold the rice over the filling, forming a ball shape. Press gently to seal.
7. Roll each ball in sesame seeds to coat.
8. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spam and Zucchini Fritters
A twist on traditional fritters, this recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with the freshness of zucchini for a unique and delicious snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the diced Spam, grated zucchini, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the lightly beaten egg to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the Spam-zucchini mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the fritters on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 8-10 minutes
Spam and Miso Soup with Tofu
This comforting soup combines the richness of Spam with the savory depth of miso, all wrapped up in a velvety broth. It’s an unexpected yet harmonious union that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/2 cup cubed firm tofu
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add diced Spam and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in miso paste until dissolved.
6. Add cubed tofu and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 mouth-watering Spam recipes inspired by Asian flavors! From classic dishes like Spam Fried Rice and Spam Musubi, to creative twists like Spam Sushi Rolls and Spam Bibimbap, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a fan of savory stir-fries or comforting bowls of ramen, these recipes will show you that Spam can be so much more than just a canned meat. With ingredients like kimchi, gochujang sauce, and udon noodles, these dishes are sure to transport your taste buds to the streets of Asia.
