Spam Musubi Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful way to bring a taste of Hawaii into your kitchen, this Spam Musubi Recipe is just the ticket! This delightful dish combines savory Spam with sticky sushi rice, all wrapped up in nori. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has a special place in my heart—it’s not just food; it’s a little moment of joy.

Making musubi is not only delicious but also an activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Whether you’re packing a picnic or preparing for a quick lunch, these tasty treats are sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Spam Musubi Recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun of wrapping their own musubi, making it an interactive meal everyone can enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these ahead of time and store them for busy days. They pack well for lunchboxes or snacks.
• Savory Flavor: The combination of marinated Spam and sushi rice creates an irresistible taste that will have your taste buds dancing.
• Customizable: With simple ingredients, you can easily tailor this recipe to suit your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to know that this recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find! Here’s what you need to gather before we get started on this delicious journey:

For the Spam

• 12 ounces Spam

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup oyster sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup sugar

For Assembly

• Nori (roasted seaweed used for sushi, cut into halves or thirds)
• 6 cups cooked sushi rice
• furikake (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Spam Musubi Recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or tofu instead of Spam for a different flavor profile!
• Add veggies: Layer in some sliced cucumbers or avocado for extra freshness and crunch.
• Spicy kick: Drizzle sriracha or sprinkle some chili flakes on top before wrapping for a spicy twist.
• Herb-infused rice: Mix in some chopped green onions or cilantro into your sushi rice for an herby flavor boost.

How to Make Spam Musubi Recipe

Step 1: Slice and Marinate the Spam

Start by slicing the Spam into about 8-10 slices based on how thick you like it. Then, place these slices in a Ziplock bag. In a bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then pour this marinade over the spam in the bag. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes—this step is crucial because it allows the flavors to soak into the Spam!

Step 2: Fry the Spam

Once marinated, drain off any excess marinade from the bag. Heat a skillet over medium heat and fry each slice of Spam until slightly crispy on both sides or until they reach your desired doneness. This step gives that lovely texture and flavor we all crave!

Step 3: Prepare Your Nori

Lay out a strip of nori, shiny side down, on a cutting board. Take your musubi mold (or any small rectangular container) and place it across the middle of the nori. This will give shape to our musubi as we build it!

Step 4: Add Sushi Rice

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Scoop some cooked sushi rice into your mold, pressing down firmly so that there’s about 1-1½ inches of rice at the bottom. Remember to dip your fingers in water occasionally while working with rice; this keeps everything from sticking!

Step 5: Optional Furikake Flavor Boost

If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s the time to sprinkle some furikake over your rice layer. This adds extra flavor and makes your musubi even more delicious!

Step 6: Assemble Your Musubi

Carefully remove the mold from the rice—you should be left with a neat block right on top of your nori! Place one slice of cooked Spam on top of that rice block.

Step 7: Wrap It Up

Finally, wrap one side of the nori over the Spam and press it down gently so it sticks. Then fold up the other side just like you’re wrapping a little present! Use a dab of water on your finger if needed to seal everything together. Serve warm, and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Spam Musubi Recipe

Making Spam Musubi at home is a delightful experience, and a few extra tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use sushi rice: This type of rice is stickier, which helps the musubi hold together better. It makes your final product easier to mold and ensures each bite is satisfying.

• Let the Spam marinate longer: If time allows, marinate your Spam for up to an hour or even overnight. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, giving you a more flavorful experience.

• Keep your hands wet while molding: Dipping your fingers in water prevents the rice from sticking to your hands. This little trick makes it easier to shape the musubi without making a mess.

• Experiment with seasonings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or sauces to the marinade. For instance, adding a dash of sesame oil can bring a beautiful nutty flavor that complements the Spam.

• Wrap them tightly: When wrapping the nori around the musubi, ensure it’s snug but not overly tight. A good wrap keeps everything together while allowing for easy eating!

How to Serve Spam Musubi Recipe

Serving your homemade Spam Musubi can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to make your dish shine at any gathering or meal.

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens each bite.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can enhance both appearance and taste, giving your musubi an appealing crunch and nuttiness.

Side Dishes

• Japanese cucumber salad: This refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers and a light vinegar dressing adds a crisp contrast to the savory spam.
• Edamame: Steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt provide a healthy and protein-packed side that balances out the flavors of the musubi.
• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements your musubi beautifully, providing warmth and umami flavors that harmonize well together.
• Seaweed salad: Lightly dressed with sesame oil and soy sauce, this salad brings additional textures and flavors that pair wonderfully with your tasty creation.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set for a delightful culinary adventure with your Spam Musubi! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spam Musubi recipe is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy tasty bites throughout the week. Whether you’re packing lunches or need a quick snack, these delightful morsels are easy to store and reheat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Spam Musubi to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the Spam Musubi as directed and allow it to cool.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best texture, consume within one month.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Heat in the microwave on low power for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warm and slightly crispy.

FAQs

I know you might have some questions about this delicious Spam Musubi recipe! Here are some common ones:

Can I use a substitute for Spam in this Spam Musubi Recipe?

Absolutely! You can use alternatives like tofu, tempeh, or even grilled chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the marinating time accordingly.

How do I make my own sushi rice for this Spam Musubi Recipe?

To make sushi rice, rinse short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions. Once cooked, mix with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to taste before using it in your Spam Musubi.

What is furikake and should I include it in my Spam Musubi Recipe?

Furikake is a Japanese seasoning blend made of dried fish, sesame seeds, seaweed, and other flavors. While it’s optional, adding it enhances the flavor of your Spam Musubi!

Can I make Spam Musubi without a mold?

Yes! If you don’t have a mold handy, simply shape the sushi rice by hand into a rectangle before layering your Spam on top. It may take a little practice but will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Spam Musubi recipe as much as I do! It’s such a fun way to bring a taste of Hawaii into your home. Perfect for snacks or meals on-the-go, I’m sure you’ll find yourself reaching for these again and again. Happy cooking!