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Spam Musubi

A classic Hawaiian lunch snack featuring sweet and savory glazed Spam atop seasoned rice, wrapped neatly in a crisp strip of nori.

25 minEasyServes 6350 cal/serving

HawaiianLunchStovetopStandardDairy-FreeNut-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-FreePork-FreeNightshade-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1 can canned Spam, sliced
  • 4 cups cooked short-grain rice
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 6 nori seaweed sheets, halved

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, and 2 tbsp mirin in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves completely.

  2. 2

    Place a skillet over medium heat and add 1 can sliced canned Spam.

  3. 3

    Fry canned Spam for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  4. 4

    Pour glaze mixture over canned Spam and turn slices to coat until sauce thickens.

  5. 5

    Lay a strip of 6 halved nori seaweed sheets flat and set a musubi press in the center.

  6. 6

    Pack 4 cups cooked short-grain rice into the press, top with glazed canned Spam, and press firmly.

  7. 7

    Remove mold and wrap nori seaweed sheets tightly around rice block to seal.

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Questions

What is Spam Musubi?

A classic Hawaiian lunch snack featuring sweet and savory glazed Spam atop seasoned rice, wrapped neatly in a crisp strip of nori. This reference files it under Hawaiian lunch: made on the stovetop, rated easy and about 25 minutes start to finish.

What internal temperature should Spam Musubi reach?

For Spam Musubi, the target internal temperature is 165 F (about 75 C), given in step 3. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

Is there a substitute for mirin in Spam Musubi?

The entry for Spam Musubi calls for 2 tbsp mirin. In its place: Use dry sherry or sake with half a teaspoon of sugar per tablespoon. Rice vinegar with the same sugar works when you want it alcohol-free.

Can I make Spam Musubi gluten-free?

Yes. The gluten in Spam Musubi is 3 tbsp soy sauce. Swap the soy-based sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Everything else proceeds as written.

Does Spam Musubi contain soy?

Yes: 3 tbsp soy sauce. The full allergen list for this entry is gluten and soy. Packaged ingredients vary by brand, so check labels if the allergy is serious.

How many calories are in Spam Musubi?

One serving (the recipe makes 6) is about 350 calories, with 11 g protein, 44 g carbohydrate and 14 g fat, plus 1 g fiber and 890 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

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