OMG, I just made the most delicious Spam fried rice that’s perfect for a quick meal fix! The combo of crispy Spam, savory soy sauce, and those fresh green onions totally transforms leftover rice into a mouth-watering treat.
I love how my Spam Fried Rice combines savory diced Spam with fragrant garlic and green onions, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. With nutrient-rich peas and carrots, protein from eggs, and the umami of soy sauce and sesame oil, this quick meal is a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Spam Fried Rice Recipe Ingredients
- Spam: Adds savory flavor and texture.
Rich in protein and sodium.
- Rice: Primary carbohydrate source, providing substance and energy.
- Garlic: Aromatic with health benefits like anti-inflammatory properties.
- Green Onions: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor, plus vitamins A and C.
- Eggs: Boosts protein content and contributes to creamy texture.
- Soy Sauce: Provides umami and enriches the dish’s depth of flavor.
- Sesame Oil: Imparts a nutty aroma and enhances the dish’s richness.
Spam Fried Rice Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 2 cups cooked and chilled rice
- 1 can Spam, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make this Spam Fried Rice Recipe
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped green onions, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the peas and carrots to the pan, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
5. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan, and pour the lightly beaten eggs into the cleared space. Scramble the eggs until just cooked through, then mix them with the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked and chilled rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Return the cooked Spam to the pan, mixing it well with the rice and vegetables.
8. Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
9. Drizzle the sesame oil over the fried rice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through. Serve immediately.
Spam Fried Rice Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Large pan or wok
2. Spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoon
6. Bowl for eggs
7. Spoon for stirring and serving
FAQ
- Can I use any type of rice for Spam Fried Rice?
Yes, but it’s best to use long-grain rice that’s been cooked and chilled beforehand for optimal texture. - Is there a substitute for Spam in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with diced ham or cooked chicken if you prefer. - What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can omit it or use a few drops of toasted sesame seeds for flavor. - How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Ensure the rice is chilled and use a hot pan to quickly stir-fry the ingredients. - Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or even a splash of chili oil for spice. - How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving. - Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace the Spam with tofu or tempeh, and consider using a vegetarian soy sauce.
Spam Fried Rice Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- Instead of Spam, you can use diced cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein source.
- Swap vegetable oil with canola oil or peanut oil for a similar cooking point.
- Green onions can be replaced with regular onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
- Use fresh carrots and peas instead of frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Pro Tips
1. Use Day-Old Rice For the best texture, use rice that was cooked the day before and thoroughly chilled. This helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy and allows it to crisp up nicely when fried.
2. Cook Spam to Crisp Ensure that the Spam is browned and slightly crispy when you cook it in the first step. This will enhance its flavor and add a nice texture contrast to the dish.
3. High Heat Cooking Keep your pan or wok at medium-high to high heat. This ensures that the vegetables remain crisp and the rice gets a nice char, mimicking the texture of restaurant-style fried rice.
4. Season Gradually Add soy sauce in increments, tasting as you go. This allows you to control the saltiness and adjust to your preference. You can also add a dash of oyster sauce or fish sauce for extra depth.
5. Finish with Freshness Reserve some green onions to sprinkle over the dish at the end. This will add a fresh burst of flavor and color to your fried rice just before serving.
Spam Fried Rice Recipe
My favorite Spam Fried Rice Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Large pan or wok
2. Spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoon
6. Bowl for eggs
7. Spoon for stirring and serving
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and chilled rice
- 1 can Spam, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped green onions, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the peas and carrots to the pan, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
5. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan, and pour the lightly beaten eggs into the cleared space. Scramble the eggs until just cooked through, then mix them with the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked and chilled rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Return the cooked Spam to the pan, mixing it well with the rice and vegetables.
8. Pour the soy sauce over the rice mixture, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
9. Drizzle the sesame oil over the fried rice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through. Serve immediately.