Name: Quick & Easy Spam Fried Rice with Garlic, Veggies & Soy Sauce
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp neutral cooking oil; 12 oz Spam ((340 g)); 1 cup shredded cabbage mix (or coleslaw mix); 1/2 cup frozen peas; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 1 green onion (sliced); 4 large eggs; 4 cups leftover fried rice; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp hoison sauce; (Optional) sesame seeds

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This Quick & Easy Spam Fried Rice is the perfect weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but craving something flavorful. Made with simple, accessible ingredients like savory Spam, tender fried rice, shredded cabbage, and peas, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover rice while creating a satisfying, budget-friendly meal. Whether you’re just a fan of Spam or looking for a quick, easy dinner, this Spam fried rice recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Last updated February 16th, 2025.

Contents (show)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick and Easy: This Spam fried rice recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry. A great solution for when you’re in need of a fast, flavorful dinner!
Budget-Friendly: With just a few simple ingredients like Spam, fried rice, eggs, and veggies, this dish is as economical as it is tasty. It’s a great option for feeding the whole family without breaking the bank, while still delivering a hearty, satisfying meal.
Versatile: This Spam fried rice is highly customizable! You can easily add your favorite vegetables or swap out the Spam for another protein like chicken or tofu. It’s the perfect recipe for using up leftovers or adapting to whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Comforting and Delicious: The savory flavors of Spam combined with the satisfying texture of fried rice make this dish both comforting and incredibly tasty. It’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredient Notes:

Spam: Adds a savory, salty flavor and a touch of umami to the fried rice, providing a protein-packed twist on traditional recipes. It’s the key ingredient that makes this Spam fried rice unique and delicious.
Large Eggs: Contribute richness and texture, helping to bind the ingredients together while adding a creamy element to the dish. Eggs are an essential part of any classic fried rice recipe.
Shredded Cabbage: Provides a crunchy texture and mild sweetness, enhancing the dish with a fresh, vegetable element. Shredded cabbage is a great addition to fried rice, offering a nice balance to the savory flavors.
Frozen Peas: Offer a burst of sweetness and color, as well as a pop of texture that complements the other ingredients. These add a bright, fresh element to the dish, making it even more vibrant and appealing.
Green Onions: Add a fresh, mild onion flavor with a hint of sharpness, enhancing the overall taste and presentation of the Spam fried rice. These provide the perfect finishing touch.
Minced Garlic: Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor, giving the fried rice a savory depth. Garlic is a must-have ingredient for creating the perfect fried rice.
Hoisin Sauce: Brings a sweet and tangy flavor with hints of garlic and spices, adding complexity to the dish. This sauce gives the Spam fried rice its unique flavor, making it stand out from other rice dishes.
Soy Sauce: Provides a salty, umami kick that deepens the overall flavor profile and helps to season the rice evenly. Soy sauce is essential for that signature taste in fried rice recipes.

Dietary Restriction & Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:

To Make Gluten-Free:
- Spam: Ensure the Spam you use is labeled gluten-free. Most varieties are, but it’s always best to check the label.
- Soy Sauce: Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce (I love the Kikkoman Gluten- Free Soy Sauce) or tamari, which is naturally gluten-free.
- Hoisin Sauce: Choose a gluten-free hoisin sauce or make your own using gluten-free ingredients. Some store-bought brands are specifically labeled as gluten-free.
To Make Soy-Free:
- Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos or a soy-free tamari.
- Swap hoisin sauce for a homemade soy-free version using sunflower seed butter, molasses, garlic, and a dash of vinegar.
To Make Egg-Free:
- Replace the eggs with a vegan egg substitute. JUST Egg is a great option.
- Alternatively, omit the eggs and increase the vegetables or protein to balance the dish.
To Make Vegetarian:
- Substitute Spam with firm tofu or a plant-based Spam alternative. Pan-fry the tofu with a little oil, soy sauce, and liquid smoke for a savory flavor.
To Make Low-Sodium:
- Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
- Use a reduced-sodium version of Spam or a lean, unprocessed meat alternative.
To Make Nut-Free:
- Ensure your hoisin sauce is nut-free. Many store-bought versions are safe, but double-check labels for peanut or tree nut ingredients.
To Make Dairy-Free:
- This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no substitutions are needed.
To Make Paleo or Whole30:
- Replace Spam with sugar-free bacon, ground pork, or shredded chicken.
- Use riced cauliflower instead of fried rice for a grain-free alternative.
- Swap soy sauce and hoisin for coconut aminos and a Whole30-compliant stir-fry sauce.
To Make Sesame-Free (if using sesame seeds):
- Simply omit the sesame seeds or replace them with finely chopped sunflower seeds for texture.

Additional Substitutions and Variations:

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap or add any of your favorite vegetables to the Spam fried rice. Consider adding bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or even mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Frozen mixed vegetables work just as well for a quick and easy option.
Protein Substitutes: While Spam is the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute it with other proteins. Try using chicken, pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. For a low-carb alternative, try using chicken sausage or bacon.
Rice Alternatives: For a low-carb or Paleo version, swap out the fried rice for riced cauliflower. For a healthier option, you can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a boost of fiber.
Sauce Variations: You can make this dish even more flavorful by adding sriracha for heat, or a splash of rice vinegar for extra tang. A drizzle of sesame oil will add a nice depth of flavor.
Spicy Fried Rice: If you love heat, add some chopped fresh chili peppers or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce to the fried rice while cooking for a spicy kick.
Make It Fruity: For a unique twist, add pineapple to the fried rice for a sweet and savory combination. This variation is particularly great if you’re a fan of Hawaiian-style fried rice.
Flavor Boosters: For an extra umami kick, sprinkle in some fish sauce or miso paste. Both are excellent flavor boosters that pair well with Spam and the other savory ingredients.

Expert Tips & Recipe Notes:

Use Day-Old Rice: If you have leftover rice, it’s perfect for fried rice recipes! Rice that has been cooked and chilled overnight is less sticky and helps achieve the ideal texture for Spam fried rice.
Preheat the Pan: Make sure your frying pan or wok is well-heated before adding the ingredients. This step is crucial for getting a good sear on the Spam and prevents the rice from becoming soggy.
Cut Spam Evenly: Cube the Spam into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and browning. This helps the Spam fried rice cook more consistently, giving it that perfect crispy texture.
Cook in Batches: If making a large quantity, cook the Spam and vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than frying, which can make the fried rice soggy and less flavorful.
Stir Frequently: Keep the ingredients moving while cooking to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Stirring often helps achieve that crispy, well-cooked texture without burning any of the ingredients.
Adjust Sauce to Taste: Start with less hoisin sauce and soy sauce, then adjust according to your taste preference. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on the saltiness of the Spam and soy sauce, you might not need to add additional salt. This will help you control the overall salt content.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your Spam fried rice with dumplings, a side of pickled vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete, balanced meal. This makes it a perfect weeknight dinner or an easy lunch option.

FAQ’s for Quick & Easy Spam Fried Rice:

Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?
- Absolutely! While leftover rice is less sticky, if you don’t have leftover rice, you can use fresh rice, but make sure to cool it down completely before frying to avoid clumping.
Can I make this Fried Rice without Spam?
- Yes! If you’re looking for a vegetarian or different protein option, you can swap the Spam for tofu, chicken, shrimp, or any protein you prefer. This recipe is highly customizable and adaptable to your dietary needs. (See Dietary Restriction & Allergy Friendly Substitutions Above)
Can I add more vegetables to the Spam Fried Rice?
- Yes! Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms. Frozen mixed vegetables work great for a quick and easy addition to your Spam fried rice.
What type of soy sauce should I use for fried rice?
- You can use regular soy sauce or low-sodium soy sauce. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. The type of soy sauce will affect the saltiness, so adjust according to your taste.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
- Yes! If you like a little heat, add chopped fresh chili peppers, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce to the Spam fried rice while cooking. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors.
Can I make Spam Fried Rice ahead of time?
- While fried rice is best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply cook the rice and chop the vegetables and Spam the day before, and the dish will come together quickly when you’re ready to cook.
How long can I store leftovers?
- Leftover Spam fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

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