Hawaiian Spam Musubi

Short Description

Hawaiian Spam Musubi is a delicious handheld snack that combines seared slices of Spam with seasoned sushi rice, wrapped in a strip of nori (seaweed). It reflects the unique culinary fusion of Hawaiian and Japanese influences and is a popular grab-and-go treat across the Hawaiian Islands.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is beloved for its simplicity, portability, and irresistible savory-sweet flavor. It’s budget-friendly, quick to assemble once the rice is prepared, and easily customizable with different seasonings or add-ins. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, Spam Musubi makes for a satisfying snack, picnic item, or lunchbox staple.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Short-grain white rice
• Water
• Rice vinegar
• White sugar
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Spam (canned cooked luncheon meat)
• Vegetable oil
• Sushi nori (seaweed sheets)

Directions

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. Cook the rice in a rice cooker or saucepan using the standard rice-to-water ratio for short-grain rice. Let it cool slightly.
3. In a small bowl, mix together rice vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold the mixture into the warm rice.
4. Slice the Spam into 8–10 even slices.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, fry the Spam slices until golden brown on both sides.
6. Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar in a bowl, then pour over the Spam in the skillet. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the meat.
7. Cut each nori sheet in half crosswise.
8. Place a strip of nori shiny side down. Use a musubi mold or your hands to form a compact block of rice on the nori.
9. Place a slice of Spam on top of the rice, then wrap the nori around to seal. Use a dab of water to stick the ends of the seaweed together.
10. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve immediately or wrap individually for later.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 to 10 musubi
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes (excluding rice soaking or cooling time)

Variations

• Add a thin folded omelet between the rice and Spam for extra flavor and texture.
• Sprinkle furikake seasoning onto the rice before adding the Spam for an umami boost.
• Use teriyaki sauce instead of oyster sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
• Try flavored Spam varieties like teriyaki or jalapeño for a twist.
• Replace Spam with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Wrap each musubi tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Remove the plastic wrap and microwave the musubi for 30–40 seconds. For best texture, reheat with a damp paper towel to keep the rice moist.

FAQs

What is Spam Musubi?

Spam Musubi is a Hawaiian snack made with grilled Spam, seasoned rice, and seaweed, inspired by Japanese onigiri.

Can I make this without a musubi mold?

Yes, you can shape the rice by hand or use the empty Spam can as a mold.

What type of rice works best?

Short-grain white rice is ideal due to its stickiness, which helps hold the musubi together.

Is Spam Musubi served hot or cold?

It can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on preference.

How do I keep the nori from becoming soggy?

Wrap the musubi just before serving or wrap it in plastic wrap to minimize moisture exposure.

Can I freeze Spam Musubi?

It’s not recommended, as freezing can negatively affect the texture of the rice and nori.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

You can use hoisin sauce or a thick soy sauce and sugar mixture as an alternative.

How do I cut the Spam evenly?

Slice it into 8–10 pieces using the ridges on the can as a guide for even portions.

Can I make the rice ahead of time?

Yes, cook the rice in advance and store it covered at room temperature for a few hours or in the fridge if using the next day.

Is there a healthier way to prepare this?

Use low-sodium Spam, brown rice, and bake the Spam instead of frying to reduce fat and salt content.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Spam Musubi is a flavorful and convenient snack that showcases the creative blend of local and Asian influences found in Hawaiian cuisine. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a great recipe to prepare for lunchboxes, road trips, or casual gatherings. Whether you stick with the classic version or add your own twist, Spam Musubi is sure to become a favorite.

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