Spam Musubi is a popular Hawaiian snack and lunch favorite that reflects the unique fusion of Asian and Pacific Islander influences in Hawaii’s food culture. It features a slice of grilled Spam glazed with a sweet and savory sauce, placed atop or sandwiched with seasoned rice, and wrapped in nori (seaweed). This portable treat is similar to Japanese onigiri but with a distinctly Hawaiian twist. Originally created during World War II when Spam was introduced to the islands, Spam Musubi has since become a staple in convenience stores, picnics, and lunchboxes across Hawaii. Its combination of salty Spam, fluffy rice, and umami-rich sauce makes it addictive and satisfying.
Preparation Time
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Preparation: 20 minutes
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Cooking: 10 minutes
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Assembly: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
Serving Size
Makes 8 pieces.
Ingredients
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2 cups uncooked short-grain sushi rice
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2 ½ cups water (for cooking rice)
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1 can Spam (12 oz), sliced into 8 pieces
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4 sheets nori, cut in half lengthwise
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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2 tablespoons sugar
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for depth)
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Rice vinegar (optional, 1 tablespoon for sushi-style rice)
Detailed Recipe
Step 1 – Cook the rice
Rinse the short-grain rice in cold water until the water runs mostly clear. Combine with 2 ½ cups of water in a rice cooker or pot and cook until tender. If using vinegar for sushi-style seasoning, mix the rice vinegar gently into the hot rice after cooking. Keep warm.
Step 2 – Prepare the Spam
Open the can of Spam and cut it into 8 equal slices. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and place the Spam slices in a single layer. Fry for 1–2 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
Step 3 – Make the glaze
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, and oyster sauce. Pour this mixture over the Spam slices in the skillet. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the Spam is coated in a glossy glaze. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4 – Shape the musubi
If you have a musubi mold, place it in the center of a halved sheet of nori. Scoop about ½ cup of cooked rice into the mold and press it down firmly. Place one slice of glazed Spam on top of the rice. Add another thin layer of rice on top if you prefer a sandwich-style musubi. Press down again to compact. Remove the mold carefully.
Step 5 – Wrap the nori
Fold the ends of the nori up and over the Spam and rice, sealing with a small dab of water if needed. Repeat for all remaining pieces.
Step 6 – Serve
Serve Spam Musubi slightly warm or at room temperature. They can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for easy transport and are perfect for picnics, lunches, or quick snacks.
