Classic Fried Spam

We have a go-to recipe to share: the classic fried spam. It’s simple but incredibly satisfying, usually served with a nicely done sunny-side-up egg and a bowl of soft, fluffy white rice. This meal, humble in its origins, has found a special place among our favorite week-night dishes. It’s a dish that celebrates the simplicity of cooking, showing how basic ingredients can come together to make something truly comforting.

When it comes to the ingredients of this classic dish, simplicity is key, and here’s what you’ll need to bring this comfort food classic to life in your kitchen:

• Spam: This canned meat has a fascinating history, becoming a staple during wartime and finding its way into many kitchens worldwide. We usually opt for the classic variety for that authentic taste, but feel free to experiment with low-sodium or turkey varieties. Slice it about ¼ inch thick to achieve that ideal crispy edge without losing moisture.
• Eggs: The eggs’ creamy yolks add a luxurious texture, beautifully contrasting the crispy spam. Whether you like your yolks runny or slightly firm, fry them to your preference.
• Rice: White rice is the traditional choice here, providing a subtle sweetness and stickiness that complements the bold flavors of spam and egg. It’s like a blank canvas, letting the other ingredients shine.

Bringing it together

When you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this dish to life. Fry your spam slices to a delightful golden brown, cook your egg just the way you like it, and fluff up that white rice. We sometimes sprinkle a bit of sesame seeds or fried garlic over the rice for an extra touch.

Serve it up

If you’re looking for ideas of what to serve alongside some fried spam, look no further - here are some of our favorite pairings;

• Scrambled eggs: Light and fluffy, a perfect complement to the saltiness of the spam.
• Grilled vegetables: Such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus, adding a healthy and colorful touch.
• Fried rice: An excellent way to use leftover rice, mixed with veggies or just plain, enhancing the overall meal.
• Baked beans: A classic choice, offering a sweet and savory balance to the dish.
• Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy and refreshing element, balancing the richness of the spam.
• Stir-fried noodles: Like chow mein or yakisoba, providing a delightful textural contrast.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy and hearty, a classic side that’s always a hit.
• Green salad: A simple, light salad with a vinaigrette dressing to cut through the richness.
• Corn on the cob: Sweet and juicy, a summertime favorite that pairs well with the meaty spam.
• Sweet potato fries: A sweeter alternative to regular fries, adding a twist to the meal.
• Pineapple slices: For a hint of tropical sweetness, complementing the salty spam perfectly.

And because we dove deep into the spam rabbit-hole, we discovered some great ways to use spam, especially if you have spam leftovers;

• Spam musubi: A popular Hawaiian snack, combining rice, fried spam, and nori (seaweed) in a sushi-like roll.
• Sandwiches: Simply layer fried spam slices with your favorite bread, lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo for a quick and tasty sandwich.
• Breakfast burritos: Wrap fried spam, scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa in a tortilla for a hearty breakfast option.
• Spam stir-fry: Mix fried spam with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and onions for a colorful and nutritious stir-fry.
• Potato hash: Combine fried spam with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a filling hash, perfect for brunch.
• Fried rice: A great way to use leftover rice; stir-fry it with spam, eggs, peas, and carrots for a quick and easy meal.
• Pizza toppings: Dice fried spam and use it as a topping on homemade or store-bought pizza dough with your favorite sauce and cheese.
• Quesadillas: Fill tortillas with fried spam and cheese, then grill for a simple and delicious quesadilla.
• Tacos: Stuff taco shells with fried spam, topped with lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a fun twist on traditional tacos.
• Skewers: Alternate pieces of fried spam with vegetables on skewers and grill for a unique appetizer or main dish.
• Macaroni salad: Add chunks of fried spam to your favorite macaroni salad recipe for added flavor and protein.