If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen staring at a can of Spam and leftover rice wondering what on earth can I do with this? — well, my friend, you’re about to discover your new favorite quick-fix meal.
I came up with this recipe on one of those nights when the fridge looked sad and empty, but I still wanted something filling and satisfying. What came out of the pan was nothing short of magic: Spam Fried Rice. It’s salty, savory, a little crispy, and absolutely addicting.
Why Spam Fried Rice Works Every Time
Spam gets a bad rap sometimes, but let’s be honest—it’s flavorful, budget-friendly, and ridiculously versatile. Fried rice is the perfect dish to let it shine. The saltiness of Spam pairs beautifully with leftover rice, veggies, and eggs, creating that unbeatable umami flavor. Think of it as fried rice’s quirky cousin who always makes the party fun.
The real secret? Spam fries up into golden, crispy cubes that taste like little bites of bacon but with more depth. Combine that with the soft rice, crunchy veggies, and a splash of soy sauce, and you’ve got a meal that feels like takeout but costs pennies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what I throw into my Spam Fried Rice. The best part? You can swap things based on what you already have in your kitchen.
- 2 cups cooked rice (day-old rice is best)
- 1 can Spam (cut into small cubes)
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 cup mixed veggies (peas, carrots, corn work well)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- 2–3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional but adds a nice nutty flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
- A pinch of black pepper
How to Make Spam Fried Rice Step by Step
Making Spam Fried Rice is so easy it almost feels like cheating, but here’s how I do it to get the best flavor and texture.
Step 1: Fry the Spam
Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add your diced Spam. Don’t add oil just yet—Spam already has fat that renders out. Cook until the cubes turn golden and crispy on the edges. This is where the flavor magic begins. Remove the Spam and set it aside.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
In the same pan, push any leftover fat around and pour in your beaten eggs. Scramble them until just set, then transfer to a plate. Don’t overcook—you want them fluffy, not rubbery.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
Add a tablespoon of oil to the pan, toss in the garlic, and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds. Add the mixed veggies and stir-fry until they’re tender but still colorful.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Now comes the heart of the dish. Add your day-old rice. Break up any clumps with a spatula and stir-fry until the grains get a little toasty.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add back the Spam and eggs. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for freshness.
That’s it—you’ve got yourself a steaming plate of Spam Fried Rice.
Tips for the Best Spam Fried Rice
- Use cold, leftover rice – Fresh rice is too soft and clumps up. Day-old rice is drier and fries beautifully.
- Crisp the Spam well – Don’t rush this part. The crispy edges are what make the dish amazing.
- High heat = great flavor – A hot pan gives fried rice that slightly smoky, “wok hei” flavor.
- Add extras if you like – Kimchi, pineapple, or even a splash of sriracha can give it a fun twist.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Here’s the thing: this recipe takes less than 20 minutes, uses pantry staples, and makes you feel like you’re eating at a late-night diner in Hawaii (where Spam is basically a food group). It’s comfort food that doesn’t break the bank.
And if you’re someone who thinks cooking is hard, this recipe will make you feel like a pro. I remember the first time I made it—standing there with my spatula, flipping crispy cubes of Spam, I thought, “Why didn’t I try this sooner?” You’re going to have the same moment, I promise.
Variations to Try
- Hawaiian Style: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet-savory combo.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in chopped jalapeños or drizzle sriracha at the end.
- Egg Lover’s Version: Make it with extra scrambled eggs for protein-packed goodness.
- Vegetable-Loaded: Throw in broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers to sneak in more greens.
Storage and Reheating
If you’ve got leftovers (which, honestly, doesn’t happen much in my house), here’s how to handle them:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pan for best results. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to bring it back to life.
FAQs About Spam Fried Rice
Q: Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?
Yes, but it won’t turn out as good. If you must, spread fresh rice on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes before cooking.
Q: Is Spam healthy?
Spam isn’t exactly health food—it’s high in sodium and fat—but in moderation, it’s fine. Balance it with veggies, and you’re good.
Q: Can I make this without eggs?
Absolutely. The eggs add protein and texture, but you can skip them or replace them with tofu.
Q: What soy sauce should I use?
Regular light soy sauce works best. Dark soy sauce is more intense and slightly sweet, so use sparingly if you want deeper color.
Q: Can I freeze Spam Fried Rice?
Yes, but I prefer not to. The rice can get mushy when thawed. Fresh is always best.
