Learn how to cook fried spam! This easy and delicious pan-fried spam recipe will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making spam fries, a fried spam sandwich, spam fried rice, spam musubi, or spam and eggs, this crispy spam dish will not disappoint. Fried spam holds a special place in the hearts of many, particularly in Filipino and Hawaiian cuisine.
What is Spam?
Spam is a pre-seasoned pork product sold in a can by Hormel Foods. It was first introduced to the public in 1937 and gained popularity during the Great Depression and post-WWII era. Spam’s long shelf life and affordability made it a convenient option for military personnel and places with limited access to fresh meat.
What does Spam stand for?
The true meaning of Spam remains known to a select few former executives at Hormel Foods. However, it’s believed that the name “Spam” stands for “Spiced Ham.” On the can itself, Spam humorously claims to mean “Sizzle Pork And Mmm.”
Can Spam be eaten uncooked?
Spam is already cooked and can be eaten straight from the can. However, its soft texture and gelatinous coating make it preferable to crisp it up before consumption. Due to its pre-cooked nature, Spam is a suitable addition to your emergency food supplies.
Why do Hawaiians love Spam?
Spam holds a significant place in Hawaiian food culture. It gained popularity in Hawaii during World War II when it was served as a luncheon meat to GIs. Its affordability, unique flavor, and easy shipping to the islands contributed to its widespread use in local cuisine. While it may not be the healthiest option, there’s still a lot to love about Spam.
How to Make Fried Spam
Follow these simple steps to make delicious fried spam on your stovetop:
- Remove the spam from the can and slice it into 8 pieces. If you prefer spam fries, cut each slice in half lengthwise.
- Preheat a well-seasoned cast-iron pan on medium heat. If your pan is not seasoned, increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
- Place the spam slices in a single layer in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side. You can adjust the cooking time based on your desired crispness.
- Spam is high in fat, so you can cook it without oil in a well-seasoned skillet. However, if the spam starts to stick, you can add a little oil.
- Once cooked, serve the fried spam with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
What goes well with fried spam?
Fried spam pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Copycat Denny’s Pancakes
- Cooked Rice
- Costco Muffins
- Fried Egg in Air Fryer
You can also substitute bacon with spam in an air fryer breakfast sandwich, add cubed spam to mac and cheese or stir-fry, or make spam fried rice.
How to Season Fried Spam
Since spam comes pre-seasoned and is already salty, you don’t need to add any additional seasoning like soy sauce. However, you can experiment with different flavor variations of spam. Some options include jalapeno, teriyaki, and hickory smoke. For a unique twist, you can try caramelizing spam by adding brown sugar.
Is Spam already cooked?
Yes! Spam is fully cooked during the canning process. However, it’s recommended to cook it further for crispy texture and optimal taste.
What is Spam made of?
Spam is made from pork with ham, salt, water, modified potato starch, sugar, and sodium nitrite. It is considered a highly processed food and contains preservatives and added sugar. While it is high in saturated fat and sodium, it is low in carbs and can be suitable for a keto-friendly diet.
To learn more about spam and its nutritional value, feel free to visit Hook’d Up Bar and Grill.
Remember, moderation is key when enjoying spam as part of a balanced diet. Whether you’re a fan of this beloved comfort food or curious to try it, fried spam is a delightful treat that will surely satisfy your taste buds.