Experience a fresh take on a beloved classic with this Spam Musubi Bake. Combining the iconic flavors of salty, savory Spam with the comforting ease of a casserole, this dish transforms a traditional Hawaiian favorite into a simple, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a flavorful fusion that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite—no sushi rolling required!
Why You’ll Love This Spam Musubi Bake
This Spam Musubi Bake is a lifesaver for busy days! It’s quick to prepare, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are simply irresistible, with the savory Spam perfectly complementing the seasoned sushi rice. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to bring smiles and satisfied appetites to the table!
Ingredients for Spam Musubi Bake
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Spam Musubi Bake. Here’s what you’ll need:
Sushi Rice: This sticky rice is the foundation of the dish, providing that classic sushi texture.
Water: Essential for cooking the rice to fluffy perfection.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the Spam.
Sugar: Just a touch to enhance the rice’s flavor and give it a hint of sweetness.
Salt: A must for seasoning the rice and bringing all the flavors together.
Spam: The star of the show! Its savory, umami flavor is what makes this dish so special.
Soy Sauce: Adds depth and a savory kick to the Spam as it cooks.
Mirin (optional): This sweet rice wine can enhance the flavor of the Spam, but feel free to skip it if you prefer.
Vegetable Oil: Used for frying the Spam to achieve that crispy, golden-brown exterior.
Nori: Seaweed strips that add a touch of authenticity and flavor to the dish.
Green Onions: Fresh and vibrant, they add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
Sesame Seeds (optional): A lovely garnish that adds a nutty crunch, but not necessary if you’re short on time.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Spam Musubi Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Start by rinsing the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial for removing excess starch, which helps achieve that perfect sticky texture. Next, combine the rinsed rice and water in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. Once the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, remove it from heat. Let it sit, covered, for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to finish cooking and become fluffy.
Step 2: Cook the Spam
While the rice is resting, it’s time to cook the Spam. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced Spam and cook until it’s golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is where the magic happens! As the Spam cooks, drizzle soy sauce and mirin over it during the last minute. This adds a delicious caramelized flavor that elevates the dish. Once done, remove the Spam from the skillet and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Now comes the fun part—assembling your Spam Musubi Bake! Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread half of the seasoned sushi rice evenly across the bottom of the dish. Next, layer the crispy Spam on top, making sure to cover the rice completely. Finally, add the remaining sushi rice, pressing down gently to pack it in. This layering creates a beautiful, cohesive dish that will hold together when baked. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; it’ll all come together in the oven!
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you haven’t already. Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once it’s heated through, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling time makes it easier to cut into squares or rectangles. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Tips for Success
Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly to achieve the perfect sticky texture.
Let the cooked rice rest for 10 minutes for fluffiness.
Don’t skip the soy sauce; it adds essential flavor to the Spam.
Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or spices.
Use a sharp knife to cut the baked dish for clean edges.
Equipment Needed
Medium Saucepan: For cooking the sushi rice. A pot with a lid works too.
Skillet: To fry the Spam. A non-stick pan is ideal for easy cleanup.
Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is perfect. Any similar-sized dish will do.
Sharp Knife: For cutting the baked dish into squares.
Variations
Teriyaki Chicken: Swap out the Spam for teriyaki chicken for a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
Tofu Option: For a vegetarian twist, use marinated tofu instead of Spam, giving it a savory kick.
Spicy Version: Add sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the Spam while cooking for a spicy kick.
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and carrots for added nutrition and color.
Quinoa Base: For a healthier alternative, use quinoa instead of sushi rice for a protein-packed dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.
Serve alongside pickled ginger for a zesty contrast.
Complement with a light soy sauce or teriyaki glaze drizzle.
Enjoy with a chilled glass of iced green tea.
Garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color.
FAQs about Spam Musubi Bake
Can I make Spam Musubi Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep!
What can I substitute for Spam?
If Spam isn’t your thing, no worries! You can use teriyaki chicken or marinated tofu for a delicious alternative. Both options will still give you that savory flavor profile that makes this dish so enjoyable.
Is Spam Musubi Bake gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free! Just ensure that the soy sauce you use is labeled gluten-free. There are many great options available that maintain the same delicious flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. It’s just as tasty the next day!
Can I add vegetables to the Spam Musubi Bake?
Definitely! Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Just layer them in with the Spam for a colorful twist!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Spam Musubi Bake has been a delightful journey for me, and I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought to my family. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it a dish that sparks smiles and happy memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the culinary adventure, and savor every delicious bite of this unique twist on a classic dish!
A delicious twist on the traditional Spam musubi, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups sushi rice
2 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
8 ounces Spam, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4 sheets nori, cut into strips
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rinsed rice and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Allow the rice to cool slightly.
While the rice cools, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced Spam and cook until browned and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drizzle the soy sauce and mirin over the Spam during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the sushi rice evenly across the bottom. Layer the cooked Spam on top, followed by the remaining sushi rice, pressing down gently to pack it.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Cut into squares or rectangles and serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the Spam while cooking.
Substitute the Spam with teriyaki chicken or tofu for a different flavor profile.
