Spam is probably one of the most polarizing foods out there, you either hate it or love it. But regardless, I have to say this humble canned meat is versatile, and I’ve seen so many amazing recipes born out of it. Today, we’re going to make spam rice balls.
Now, I know what some of you might be thinking—Spam? Really? But hear me out. When spam is cooked right, it transforms into a salty, savory delight with fluffy rice and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to work with, making it a perfect ingredient for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. So, let’s dive in.
Ingredients to make spam rice balls
- 2 cups steamed rice
- 1/2 can Spam, cubed
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Seaweed sheets, crumbled
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sake
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- Vinegar, optional
Instructions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed Spam and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the Spam is browned, add the soy sauce, sake, and sugar to the skillet. Stir well to coat the Spam evenly in the sauce. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed rice, cooked Spam, sesame seeds, seaweed and mayonnaise. Gently fold everything together until well incorporated.
- Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, portion out the rice mixture and roll it into balls.
- Arrange your Spam Rice Balls on a plate and serve. For an extra kick, serve with soy sauce dipping and wasabi.
What types of rice you should use?
When making Spam Rice Balls, you might want to use rice that sticks together well which helps the rice balls hold their shape. Short-grain rice varieties are your best bet for this recipe. Japanese Rice is the most commonly used rice for making rice balls in Japanese cuisine. Some recommendations are:
Shirakiku Dried Grains & Rice – Japanese Short Grain White Koshihikari Rice
And there you have it—Spam Rice Balls that are as fun to make as they are to eat!
So, if you’re craving spam and want it to be quick, give these rice balls a try. They are proof that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients can lead to the most delicious discoveries.
Spam Rice Balls
Equipment
- 1 ice cream scoop
Ingredients
- 2 cups steamed rice
- 1/2 can Spam cubed
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Seaweed sheets crumbled
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sake
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- Vinegar optional
Instructions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed Spam and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the Spam is browned, add the soy sauce, sake, and sugar to the skillet. Stir well to coat the Spam evenly in the sauce. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed rice, cooked Spam, sesame seeds, seaweed and mayonnaise. Gently fold everything together until well incorporated.
- Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, portion out the rice mixture and roll it into balls.
- Arrange your Spam Rice Balls on a plate and serve. For an extra kick, serve with soy sauce dipping and wasabi.
