Spam is a versatile canned meat product made by Hormel Foods. It has a bad reputation as a low-quality processed food, but it can actually be quite tasty when prepared properly. Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to cook the perfect spam in 2 different ways.
1. How To Cook Spam on Stove ( Fried Recipe)
Ingredients
- 1 can of Spam
- 1 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
- Spices of your choice (pepper, paprika, garlic powder, etc.)
Instructions
Open the can of Spam and remove it from the can. Then you cut the Spam into slices (recommended around 1/4 inch)
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Then add the oil and allow to shimmer.
Next, add the sliced Spam carefully in a single layer. Allow it to fry undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. The underside should become golden brown. Flip the Spam and fry the other side until browned and crispy, about 2 more minutes.
Optionally season with spices like pepper, paprika, garlic powder, etc. to taste.
Drain fried Spam on paper towels and serve hot. Enjoy immediately for the perfect crispy, fried texture.
2. How To Cook Spam in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 can of Spam
- Optional: Soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.
Open the can of Spam and remove it from the can. Then you cut the Spam into slices (recommended around 1/4 inch)
If desired, you can marinate the Spam slices in soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or other seasonings of your choice. This step is optional but can add extra flavor to the Spam.
Place the Spam slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have a whole piece of Spam, place it in the basket as well.
Air fry the Spam at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping the slices or the whole piece halfway through the cooking time. This will help to ensure even browning and crispness.
After the cooking time, check the Spam for desired crispness. If you prefer it to be crispier, you can leave it in the air fryer for a couple more minutes.
Once the Spam is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
3. Serving Suggestions
Fried Eggs
Fried Spam and eggs are a classic combination, especially for breakfast. You can serve your Spam with sunny-side-up, scrambled, or poached eggs. The richness of the eggs complements the salty, savory flavor of the fried Spam. Add some hot sauce or ketchup for extra flavor.
Rice
Spam and rice make a delicious pairing, popular in many cuisines such as Hawaiian or Asian-inspired dishes. Serve your fried Spam with a bowl of steamed white rice, brown rice, or fried rice. For extra flavor, you can drizzle a bit of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce over the top.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
For a comforting meal, pair fried Spam with a grilled cheese sandwich. The crispy, gooey texture of the sandwich complements the fried Spam perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Add some tomato slices or pickles to balance the flavors.
Potatoes
Fried Spam pairs well with various potato dishes:
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve your Spam with creamy mashed potatoes to balance the richness of the Spam.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty side to accompany the salty fried Spam.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns or home fries are a great breakfast option to serve alongside Spam.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or asparagus complement the savory nature of Spam. Their slight sweetness and charred flavors contrast nicely with the salty Spam.
Cole Slaw
Cole slaw adds a refreshing crunch and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of fried Spam. The creamy and slightly sweet dressing balances out the salty meat, making it an excellent side dish.
Bread or Buns
Spam is often served in sandwiches or as a filling for sliders. Place fried Spam between slices of soft bread, a hamburger bun, or a toasted English muffin. You can add lettuce, tomato, pickles, or a bit of mustard to complement the richness of the Spam.
Kimchi
If you want to go for an Asian-inspired meal, serve fried Spam with kimchi. The spicy, fermented cabbage brings bold, tangy flavors that cut through the fatty Spam and adds depth to the dish.
Pickles
The acidity and crunch of pickles make them a great accompaniment to fried Spam. They add a refreshing contrast to the saltiness of the meat. Try dill pickles, bread-and-butter pickles, or even pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
Salads
A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette works well with fried Spam. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the Spam. You can also add avocado, cherry tomatoes, or olives for extra flavor and texture.
Now, you knew how to cook spam in 2 different ways. I hope that after reading this article, you will have perfect fried spam slices to pair with delicious side dishes like rice, eggs or salad for a quick, easy and comforting meal anytime.
