How to Make Crispy Spam Musubi (Hawaiian Family Recipe, Step-by-Step!)

Get ready to experience a taste of the beautiful Hawaiian islands with a delightful treat known as Spam Musubi. This beloved snack combines the unlikely pairing of Spam, a canned meat product, and sushi rice, resulting in a mouthwatering fusion of flavors. Join us on a culinary journey as we dive into the world of Spam Musubi, exploring its origins, ingredients, and how you can easily create this scrumptious treat in your own kitchen.

The Origins of Spam Musubi

Spam Musubi is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, reflecting the diverse culinary influences that have shaped the island’s cuisine. The dish is believed to have been inspired by onigiri, a popular Japanese snack consisting of rice balls wrapped in seaweed. As a result of Hawaii’s historical connection with Japan and its love for Spam, a uniquely Hawaiian twist emerged, giving birth to the Spam Musubi we know and love today.

Crispy Spam Musubi Recipe

INGREDIENTS

Crispy Spam Musubi Ingredients

• vegetable oil to pan-fry
• 1 340-gram can of Spam teriyaki-flavored, sliced lengthwise into 6 pieces
• 3 cups Japanese rice or short-grain white rice
• 6 slices cheddar cheese cut lengthwise in half
• 3 sheets Nori cut lengthwise in half
• 1 Cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large Egg beaten
• 1 Cup Japanese breadcrumbs
• green onions Chopped, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Pan-fry Spam slices until lightly browned, about 1 minute per side. Drain on paper towels.
2. Layer ¼ cup rice, a cheese strip, a Spam slice, another cheese strip, and another ¼ cup rice in a musubi mold (see tip). Press down firmly on the musubi to make sure the layers hold. Unmold musubi then wrap with a nori sheet. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 5 more pieces. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Place flour, egg, and breadcrumbs in separate containers. Dredge each musubi in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Deep-fry until golden brown on all sides, about 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
4. Slice Spam Musubi in half. Garnish with green onions, if desired. Serve immediately.