When it comes to cooking with Spam, many people think that the canned meat is only good for a few classic dishes like Spam and eggs or Spam musubi. But trust us, there’s so much more to this humble ingredient than meets the eye! In this article, we’ll show you how to take your love of Spam to the next level by combining it with bold Asian flavors in 18 mouth-watering recipes that will set your taste buds ablaze.
From spicy stir-fries and soups to savory sushi rolls and steamed buns, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for something new and exciting. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make! So whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, we invite you to explore the world of spicy Spam cooking and discover just how versatile this iconic ingredient can be.
Spam Fried Rice with Kimchi
This recipe combines the savory goodness of Spam with the spicy kick of kimchi, adding a new dimension to traditional fried rice. The result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 slices of Spam, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 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 Spam and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the Spam to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble until cooked through.
4. Mix the egg with the Spam.
5. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
6. Stir in the chopped kimchi.
7. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and slightly toasted.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Spam Musubi with Teriyaki Glaze
This sweet and savory recipe combines the comfort of Spam musubi with the richness of teriyaki glaze. Perfect for snacking or as a unique appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, cooked and diced
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed sheets
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spam musubi by spreading a thin layer of Japanese rice onto a nori sheet, leaving a small border at the top.
2. Place 1-2 tablespoons of diced Spam on top of the rice.
3. Fold the nori over the filling to form a compact triangle or rectangle shape.
4. In a small saucepan, heat the teriyaki glaze until warm and syrupy.
5. Brush the warmed teriyaki glaze onto the Spam musubi.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including preparation time)
Spicy Spam Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
Elevate your ramen game with this spicy and savory twist featuring crispy Spam, a soft-boiled egg, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 slices of Spam
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken or pork broth
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 soft-boiled egg
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Spam and cook until crispy, flipping halfway through (about 5-6 minutes).
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the broth, soy sauce, and gochujang to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble the ramen by placing the cooked noodles in a bowl, topping with crispy Spam, soft-boiled egg, and the spicy broth.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Stir-Fry with Garlic and Chili
Add a twist to classic stir-frying with this spicy and savory recipe featuring canned Spam. The combination of crispy garlic, chili flakes, and savory Spam will elevate your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook until crispy, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the sliced Spam and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle chili flakes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spam and Egg Breakfast Banh Mi
This Spam and Egg Breakfast Banh Mi is a creative spin on the traditional Vietnamese sandwich, combining the savory flavors of Spam and egg with fresh herbs and crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 4 baguette halves
– 1/4 cup of pickled carrots and daikon
– 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until scrambled.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the Spam strips until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Toast the baguette halves.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on each half, followed by a spoonful of scrambled eggs, a few pieces of crispy Spam, and some pickled carrots and daikon.
5. Top with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spam Katsu Curry with Japanese Rice
A classic Japanese curry dish gets a unique twist with the addition of crispy Spam katsu, served over fluffy Japanese rice. This comforting and flavorful meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup curry roux (available at Asian markets or online)
– 2 cups Japanese rice
– 2 cups water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: chopped green onions and pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spam katsu by coating each piece in flour, then egg, and finally panko breadcrumbs.
2. Fry the Spam katsu in vegetable oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
4. Make the curry by mixing the curry roux with 1 cup of hot water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Serve the Spam katsu on top of cooked Japanese rice, accompanied by the warm curry sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spam Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
Bibimbap is a popular Korean rice bowl dish, and adding Spam to the mix gives it a unique twist. This recipe combines the savory flavors of Spam with the spicy kick of gochujang sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced zucchini)
– 1/4 cup gochujang sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced Spam and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the mixed vegetables with soy sauce until tender.
4. To assemble the bibimbap, place a scoop of cooked rice into a bowl, followed by a layer of sautéed vegetables, and then a slice or two of crispy Spam.
5. Drizzle the gochujang sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped scallions if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Kimchi Jjigae Stew
This unique Korean-inspired stew combines the savory flavor of Spam with the bold spices and textures of kimchi. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2 cups of kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 cup of water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped kimchi, Gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, and water. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spam Pad Thai with Peanuts and Lime
This recipe combines the savory flavors of Spam with the spicy kick of pad thai, all wrapped up in a zesty lime sauce and crunchy peanuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add Spam strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add tamarind paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked noodles and peanuts; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
6. Squeeze lime juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Sushi Rolls with Avocado
Take your sushi game to the next level with this unconventional yet delicious recipe that combines the savory flavor of Spam with the creamy texture of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Rice vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut a sheet of nori in half lengthwise.
3. Place a thin layer of cooked rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Arrange two slices of Spam on top of the rice.
5. Add a spoonful of mashed avocado alongside the Spam.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes preparation time)
Spam Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps
Discover the perfect fusion of Korean and American flavors with this addictive Spam Bulgogi Lettuce Wrap recipe. Savor the sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, crispy Spam, and spicy bulgogi sauce wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup bulgogi sauce (Korean-style marinade)
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4-6 large lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together bulgogi sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
3. Add Spam strips to the pan and cook until crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm lettuce leaves by wrapping them around a damp paper towel for 30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by placing cooked Spam, caramelized onions, and bulgogi sauce onto a warmed lettuce leaf.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Sinigang Soup with Tamarind Broth
Sinigang is a traditional Filipino soup that typically features tamarind broth and various vegetables. This recipe puts a creative spin on the classic by incorporating Spam, a popular canned meat in many Asian cultures.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2 cups of tamarind broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 medium-sized tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup of fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned.
3. Pour in the tamarind broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the tomato, fish sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spam Char Siu Bao (Steamed Buns)
Experience the fusion of Eastern and Western flavors with these Spam-filled steamed buns, inspired by traditional Chinese char siu bao. This unique recipe combines the savory taste of Spam with the sweetness of steamed dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into balls.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk, placing a few pieces of diced Spam in the center.
6. Fold the dough over the Spam to form a bun shape.
7. Place buns on a steamer lined with parchment paper.
8. Steam for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spam Okonomiyaki Pancake with Mayo
Okonomiyaki, a popular Japanese savory pancake, gets a twist with the addition of Spam and creamy mayonnaise. This unique fusion is sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup diced Spam
– 1/4 cup chopped green onion
– 1/4 cup shredded cabbage
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, water, salt, and sugar to form a smooth batter.
2. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat with a small amount of vegetable oil.
3. Pour in the batter and spread evenly.
4. Top with diced Spam, green onion, and cabbage.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown.
6. Loosen the pancake with a spatula and flip.
7. Brush top with mayonnaise and cook for an additional minute.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spam Laksa Noodle Soup
This recipe combines the creamy richness of laksa with the savory goodness of Spam, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional noodle soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 1 tablespoon laksa paste
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat chicken broth over medium heat. Add diced Spam and cook until heated through.
3. Add coconut milk, laksa paste, onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Add cooked noodles to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Adobo with Soy and Vinegar
A classic Filipino twist on traditional Spam recipes, this dish combines the savory flavor of soy sauce with the tanginess of vinegar to create a mouthwatering adobo.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thick strips
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam strips and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the Spam from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and vinegar mixture, stirring to combine.
6. Add the cooked Spam back into the skillet, simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes until coated with the adobo sauce.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh green onions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Thai Basil Stir-Fry
Spam Thai Basil Stir-Fry: A Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the savory goodness of Spam with the bold flavors of Thailand, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the 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 the pan and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers and garlic to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Thai basil, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the Spam to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed
This hearty soup combines the richness of Spam, the savory umami of miso, and the tender texture of tofu, all tied together with the brininess of seaweed. It’s a unique fusion that will warm your belly and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups dashi broth (or chicken broth)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/2 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1 sheet nori seaweed, torn into pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add diced Spam; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in dashi broth and miso paste; whisk until smooth.
5. Bring to a simmer and add tofu; cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Stir in nori seaweed pieces; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 innovative Spam recipes that blend Asian flavors! From classic dishes like Spam Fried Rice with Kimchi and Spicy Spam Ramen, to unique fusion creations like Spam Musubi with Teriyaki Glaze and Spam Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce, this article has something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory breakfast wrap or a comforting bowl of noodle soup, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, give Asian-inspired Spam a try!
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