Description
Spam Musubi is a tasty Hawaiian snack featuring seasoned sushi rice and savory Spam, all wrapped in nori. This portable treat is perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or as a party appetizer, offering a satisfying blend of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (12 oz) Spam
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Plastic wrap (for shaping)
Instructions
- Rinse the sushi rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 1/2 cups of water. Let it soak for about 30 minutes to an hour.
- After soaking, bring the rice and water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
- Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl and drizzle the vinegar mixture over it. Gently fold the rice to incorporate the vinegar mixture without mashing the grains. Allow the rice to cool to room temperature.
- Open the can of Spam and remove the block of Spam. Slice it into 8 equal rectangular pieces, about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the Spam slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce and mirin (if using). Pour the soy sauce mixture over the Spam in the skillet and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare a clean work surface and lay out a sheet of plastic wrap, about 12 inches long.
- Place a sheet of nori on top of the plastic wrap, shiny side down.
- Wet your hands with water to prevent the rice from sticking. Take about 1/2 cup of sushi rice and place it in the center of the nori. Press the rice down to form a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place one slice of the cooked Spam on top of the rice, centered.
- Take another 1/2 cup of sushi rice and place it on top of the Spam. Press down gently to form a compact layer.
- Fold the bottom edge of the nori over the rice and Spam, then use the plastic wrap to help you roll it tightly. Wet the edge of the nori to seal it.
- Once rolled, use the plastic wrap to shape the musubi into a tight rectangle. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to hold its shape.
- Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
- Once the musubi has set, carefully unwrap the plastic wrap and slice each musubi into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish if desired.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, you can substitute Spam with marinated tofu or grilled vegetables.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and mirin to taste, depending on your preference for saltiness and sweetness.
- Make sure to keep the rice covered with a damp cloth while assembling to prevent it from drying out.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes