This Quick & Easy Spam Fried Rice is the perfect weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but craving something flavorful. Made with just a few simple ingredients, including savory Spam, tender rice, shredded cabbage, and peas, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and get a satisfying meal on the table fast. Whether you’re a fan of Spam or just looking for a budget-friendly dinner idea, this fried rice recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
– Spam: Adds a savory, salty flavor and a touch of umami to the fried rice, providing a unique, protein-packed twist on traditional recipes. – Large Eggs: Contribute richness and texture, helping to bind the ingredients together and add a creamy element to the dish. – Shredded Cabbage: Provides a crunchy texture and mild sweetness, enhancing the dish with a fresh, vegetable element. – Frozen Peas: Offer a burst of sweetness and color, as well as a pop of texture that complements the other ingredients. – Green Onions: Add a fresh, mild onion flavor with a hint of sharpness, enhancing the overall taste and presentation of the fried rice. – Minced Garlic: Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor, giving the fried rice a savory depth. – Hoisin Sauce: Brings a sweet and tangy flavor with hints of garlic and spices, adding complexity to the dish. – Soy Sauce: Provides a salty, umami kick that deepens the overall flavor profile and helps to season the rice evenly.
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 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. – Other Ingredients: Double-check that any additional seasonings or sauces used are gluten-free.
– 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. – 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. – 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.
Expert Tips: – Use Day-Old Rice: For best results, use rice that has been cooked and chilled overnight. Day-old rice is less sticky and helps achieve a better texture. – Preheat the Pan: Make sure the frying pan or wok is well-heated before adding ingredients. This helps to get a good sear on the Spam and prevents sogginess. – Cut Spam Evenly: Cube the Spam into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and browning. – Cook in Batches: If making a large quantity, cook the Spam and vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than frying. – Stir Frequently: Keep the ingredients moving to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking. – Adjust Sauce to Taste: Start with less hoisin 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. – Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. – Serving Suggestions: Serve with dumplings, a side of pickled vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Cook the Spam: – Heat oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. – Add cubed Spam and cook for 4-6 minutes, or until golden brown. Transfer the Spam to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Sauté the Vegetables: – In the same pan, add the shredded cabbage and sauté for about 4 minutes, until slightly tender. – Add the sliced green onions, minced garlic, and frozen peas. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes. Scramble the Eggs: – Crack the eggs into the pan, scramble, and cook until fully set.
Combine Ingredients: – Add the leftover rice and the cooked Spam to the pan. Mix well. – Pour in the hoisin sauce and soy sauce, tossing to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra hoisin or soy sauce as needed. Final Cook and Serve: – Continue to fry for a few more minutes until the mixture is heated through. – Serve garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.