Title: 18 Tasty Spam Hawaiian Recipes You Need to Try!
When it comes to creative ways to use canned SPAM, few cuisines are more iconic than Hawaiian. The Pacific island nation has a long history of incorporating the salty, savory meat into its dishes, often combining it with fresh pineapple, coconut milk, and other local flavors. Today, we’re excited to share 18 mouthwatering Spam Hawaiian recipes that showcase this unique fusion. From classic SPAM musubi and fried rice to more adventurous creations like SPAM tacos and burgers, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey across the islands, exploring the many ways that Spam has become an integral part of Hawaiian cuisine. Whether you’re a local looking for new recipe ideas or just a SPAM fan eager to try something new, these 18 tasty recipes are sure to please!
Hawaiian Spam Musubi
Discover the unique fusion of Japanese-inspired sushi and Hawaiian-style comfort food with this simple recipe for Spam Musubi!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the Spam into 1-inch thick pieces and pan-fry until crispy, breaking apart into small chunks as it cooks.
3. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce and sake (if using).
4. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board or other surface. Spread a thin layer of cooked rice onto the seaweed, leaving about 1 inch at the top uncoated.
5. Place a few pieces of pan-fried Spam in the middle of the rice.
6. Fold the nori over the filling to form a square shape, applying gentle pressure to compress the ingredients together.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, including cooking time for rice.
Spam Fried Rice Hawaiian Style
Spam Fried Rice Hawaiian Style: A Twist on a Classic!
This recipe combines the humble beginnings of fried rice with the bold flavors of Spam, adding a touch of tropical flair to create a dish that’s sure to please.
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 bell peppers (green, red, yellow), diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Push vegetables to one side of the pan; add diced Spam and cook until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir-fry everything together with cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hawaiian Spam and Pineapple Skewers
This sweet and savory recipe combines the iconic flavors of Hawaii, featuring juicy pineapple chunks paired with crispy Spam, all threaded onto skewers for an easy and impressive appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and soy sauce.
3. Thread Spam pieces, pineapple chunks, and a few sugar-soy mixture drizzles onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt to taste.
5. Grill or cook skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until Spam is crispy and pineapple is caramelized.
6. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spam Loco Moco
Experience the bold flavors of Hawaii with this classic Spam Loco Moco recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup brown gravy (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, cook the Spam slices over medium-high heat until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Prepare the brown gravy according to package instructions or make your own using beef broth, flour, and soy sauce.
4. To assemble the Loco Moco, place a scoop of cooked rice in a bowl, followed by a slice of Spam, then spoon the brown gravy over the Spam.
5. Sprinkle the soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil mixture evenly over the top.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hawaiian Spam Sliders
This sweet and savory twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, featuring crispy bacon, melted pineapple, and salty Spam. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, these bite-sized sliders are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of crispy bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup of pineapple jam or preserves
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place a slice of Spam on the unbuttered side of two bread slices, followed by a few pieces of crumbled bacon and a dollop of pineapple jam.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices (butter-side up).
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spam and Egg Breakfast Plate
A classic comfort food breakfast that’s quick, easy, and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for a busy morning when you need something to fuel up.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Optional: cheese, chives, or hot sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble them until they’re cooked through.
3. Add the sliced Spam to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned on both sides.
4. Toast the bread slices until they’re lightly browned.
5. Assemble the breakfast plate by placing a slice of toast on each plate, topping with scrambled eggs, and serving alongside the Spam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hawaiian Spam Stir Fry
A classic Hawaiian dish that’s sweet, savory, and satisfying! This recipe combines the iconic canned SPAM with a medley of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices for a flavorful stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 can SPAM, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add SPAM and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and snow peas; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return SPAM to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and savory breakfast or brunch option, this Spam and Sweet Potato Hash combines the salty goodness of canned Spam with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly morning or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
4. Add diced Spam to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with cooked Spam mixture in the skillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Hawaiian Spam Tacos
This unique twist on traditional tacos combines the flavors of Hawaii with a classic Mexican dish. Canned SPAM, a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, is cooked with soy sauce and pineapple to add a sweet and savory element to these tasty tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 can SPAM, diced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, cook the diced SPAM over medium heat until crispy.
2. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger to the skillet and stir to combine.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is caramelized.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the SPAM mixture onto a tortilla, followed by pineapple chunks.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Macaroni Salad
This hearty salad combines the savory flavor of Spam with the comforting warmth of macaroni, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With its easy preparation and short cooking time, this recipe is a quick and satisfying option for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can Spam, diced
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced Spam over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and chopped parsley.
4. Add the cooked Spam to the bowl and toss to combine.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and white vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Hawaiian Spam Pizza
This unique pizza combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavor of Spam, a popular Hawaiian staple. This unexpected combination will surprise your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin pieces
– 1 cup of pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the olive oil evenly over the pre-baked pizza crust.
3. Arrange the sliced Spam on top of the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add the pineapple chunks on top of the Spam.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pineapple.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Pineapple Fried Rice
This Hawaiian-inspired dish combines the savory flavors of Spam with sweet pineapple, all wrapped up in a fluffy bed of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can Spam, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced 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. Crack in the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan. Stir-fry until the rice is well coated with the vegetable mixture and heated through.
5. Stir in the diced Spam, pineapple chunks, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until all the ingredients are well combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hawaiian Spam Sushi Rolls
This recipe combines the sweetness of Hawaiian pineapple with the savory flavor of Spam to create a unique and delicious sushi roll. Perfect for adventurous eaters, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin pieces
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix the cooked rice with water, pineapple juice, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Place a small amount of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Add sliced Spam and chopped pineapple to the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with sesame seeds and soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spam and Coconut Rice Bowl
A fusion of savory and sweet, this Spam and Coconut Rice Bowl is a unique twist on traditional comfort food. Canned Spam is often associated with Hawaiian cuisine, while coconut rice adds an exotic touch to this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced
– 2 cups of uncooked white rice
– 3 cups of water
– 1 cup of shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or grated carrots for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sliced Spam and cook until golden brown, flipping occasionally.
3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the shredded coconut.
4. Serve the Spam on top of the coconut rice, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hawaiian Spam Omelette
This beloved breakfast dish combines savory Spam with the richness of eggs and a hint of Hawaiian flair. Perfect for a quick morning meal or brunch, this omelette is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup diced Spam
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the diced Spam on one half of the omelette and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the Spam.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds or until the eggs are almost set.
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Spam and Teriyaki Noodles
This sweet and savory recipe combines the classic Hawaiian dish Spam with the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious noodle bowl. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup of teriyaki noodles (or any Asian-style noodle)
– 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced Spam and cook until caramelized and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss with the Spam and teriyaki mixture.
5. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hawaiian Spam Burger
Experience the unique fusion of Japanese-inspired flavors with classic American comfort food in this mouth-watering Hawaiian Spam Burger recipe. This sweet and savory masterpiece is a must-try for any adventurous foodie.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– 4 slices of pineapple
– 4 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomatoes, sliced
– 2 pickles, thinly sliced
– Mayonnaise or teriyaki sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Spam slices for about 3-4 minutes per side, until caramelized and crispy.
3. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the burgers by placing a cooked Spam slice on each bun, followed by a slice of pineapple, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a dollop of mayonnaise or teriyaki sauce (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Mango Salsa
Combine the savory goodness of Spam with the sweetness of mangoes and experience a flavor fusion like no other! This unique salsa is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced Spam, mangoes, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salsa and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of prep work.
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Spam Hawaiian recipes! From classic dishes like Spam Musubi to innovative twists like Spam Tacos, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes that combine the savory flavor of Spam with the tropical flavors of Hawaii. Get inspired by these tasty ideas and take your cooking to new heights with this list of Spam-filled wonders. Whether you’re a local or just looking for a taste of aloha spirit, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
