When life throws you a busy week, and takeout starts to blur into a familiar routine, I always turn to my trusty Spam Fried Rice. This dish is a deliciously comforting blend of savory flavors that transports me back to cozy nights in the kitchen, experimenting with simple ingredients. The crispy edges of Spam sizzling in the pan herald a satisfying meal that’s as pleasurable to make as it is to eat.
I discovered this recipe during a whirlwind week one evening when I had a couple of leftover cups of rice in the fridge and a can of Spam calling my name. I was searching for something quick yet rewarding, and this fried rice fit the bill perfectly. It’s packed with protein, veggies, and that magical combination of soy sauce and sesame oil that makes your taste buds dance.
What I love most about Spam Fried Rice is its incredible versatility. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes and easily customize it to suit your cravings or use up whatever’s in your fridge. Get ready to reclaim your dinner table with this delightful, speedy dish that even your pickiest eaters will adore!
Why is Spam Fried Rice so amazing?
Easy to Make: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade without the hassle.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of Spam, savory soy sauce, and sesame oil creates an unforgettable dish that’s rich in umami goodness.
Endless Customization: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own! Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or even some leftover chicken for a unique twist.
Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples like rice and Spam ensures this dish is kind on your wallet while still delivering satisfying flavors.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a get-together with friends, this Spam Fried Rice is sure to impress. For more delicious combinations, be sure to check out our creative rice recipes!
Spam Fried Rice Ingredients
• To make your Spam Fried Rice truly delightful, gather these key ingredients.
For the Rice
• 4 cups cooked rice – Make sure the rice is chilled; day-old rice works best for a perfect texture!
For the Eggs
• 4 large eggs – Scramble them well for fluffy, tasty bites throughout the dish.
For the Protein
• 12 ounces Spam – Cut into cubes for crispy edges that add a savory richness to the rice.
For the Veggies
• 1 medium onion – Diced finely to enhance the flavor as it softens during cooking.
• 4 cloves garlic – Minced to bring a lovely aroma that pairs beautifully with the Spam.
• 2 cups peas and carrots – These vibrant veggies also add a touch of sweetness and color.
For the Seasonings
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce – A must-have for salted, rich depth in the fried rice.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Adds a delicious nuttiness that elevates the overall flavor.
• ½ teaspoon pepper – A pinch of heat to balance the sweet and savory notes.
For the Garnish
• 3 green onions – Sliced to add a fresh crunch and a pop of color on top.
• Sesame seeds (optional) – Sprinkle these for an extra layer of flavor and a nice visual touch.
How to Make Spam Fried Rice
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Prepare the Rice: Start by cooking the rice according to package directions, then refrigerate for about 3 hours. Chilled rice yields the best texture for frying!
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Scramble the Eggs: In a large nonstick skillet or wok, pour in the beaten eggs and cook on medium heat for about 4 minutes. Stir until it’s a hard scramble. Transfer the eggs to a bowl and set aside.
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Sauté the Spam: In the same skillet, add the diced Spam over medium-high heat. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often, until the edges become crispy. Remove the Spam and keep it in a separate bowl.
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Cook the Onions: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the Veggies: Toss in the peas and carrots, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. You want them just tender but still vibrant in color.
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Combine the Ingredients: Return the cooked rice, Spam, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, making sure everything is heated through.
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Season the Dish: Drizzle 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the mixture, then season with ½ teaspoon of pepper. Stir everything together until evenly coated.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and a delightful crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spam Fried Rice Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this dish and make it your own!
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Vegetable Medley: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or corn for a colorful twist and extra nutrients.
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Protein-Packed: Swap Spam for grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to customize your protein source. Each adds its own unique flavor while keeping it hearty.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha for a delightful heat that’ll make your taste buds dance. It’s a great way to awaken the classic flavor!
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Nutrient Boost: Include spinach or kale, adding them just before the rice to wilt them slightly. They’ll enhance both the flavor and color of your fried rice.
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Herb Forward: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh pop of flavor that complements the savory elements beautifully.
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Nutty Addition: Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft rice and vegetables.
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Coconut Flair: Substitute half of the soy sauce with coconut aminos or add a dash of coconut milk for a tropical twist full of flavor!
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Dinner for Breakfast: Transform this dish into a breakfast treat by adding a fried egg on top, bringing a rich and creamy element to every bite.
What to Serve with Spam Fried Rice?
Elevate your meal by pairing this comforting fried rice with some delightful side dishes and beverages.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites filled with veggies or pork add a satisfying texture contrast to the savory rice.
- Garlic Butter Bok Choy: A light and refreshing green that complements the rich flavors of Spam Fried Rice while adding a beautiful pop of color.
- Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad cuts through the richness with its tangy dressing and brings a delightful crunch.
- Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Skewered bites of chicken glazed with teriyaki sauce enhance the Asian-inspired theme while providing a protein-packed addition.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds a soothing, umami-filled experience that pairs beautifully with the fried rice.
- Chilled Green Tea: A lightly sweetened iced green tea offers a refreshing palate-cleansing sip between bites, balancing the dish’s savory notes.
- Fried Plantains: Sweet, succulent plantains caramelized until golden provide a lovely contrast to the salty Spam and enhance the meal’s overall depth.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: For a twist, serve this fruity and nutty version alongside for a tropical flair that plays off the soy sauce beautifully.
- Chocolate Mochi: End your meal on a sweet note with these chewy and delicious treats that are simply irresistible!
How to Store and Freeze Spam Fried Rice
Fridge: Store leftover Spam Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of Spam Fried Rice in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Spam Fried Rice at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Expert Tips for Spam Fried Rice
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Chill Your Rice: Always use chilled, day-old rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can turn mushy when fried.
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Don’t Overcook Spam: Ensure you cook the Spam just until it’s crispy. Overcooking can lead to a tough texture that masks its savory flavor.
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Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap or add in your favorite vegetables. Just remember to cut them evenly for consistent cooking in your Spam Fried Rice.
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Season Gradually: Start with less soy sauce when seasoning, as you can always add more later. It’s easier to adjust saltiness than to fix an overly salty dish!
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Serve Hot: Fried rice is best enjoyed hot and fresh, so serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Spam Fried Rice components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook and refrigerate the rice up to 3 days in advance, allowing you to skip that step on a busy night. Additionally, you can scramble the eggs and sauté the Spam, then store them separately in airtight containers for up to 24 hours. To maintain the dish’s quality, make sure to let everything cool before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. When ready to serve, simply reheat the ingredients in a large skillet, adding the veggies and seasoning them with soy sauce and sesame oil for that freshly made flavor. You will enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
Spam Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for Spam Fried Rice?
Absolutely! The best choice for Spam Fried Rice is day-old, chilled rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky, leading to mushy fried rice. For optimal texture, refrigerate your rice for at least 3 hours before frying.
How should I store leftover Spam Fried Rice?
Very simple! Store leftover Spam Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid trapping moisture, which can make the rice soggy.
Can I freeze Spam Fried Rice?
Yes, you can! To freeze, divide your Spam Fried Rice into portions and pack them into airtight freezer bags or containers. Flatten the bags to save space and freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to label them with the date for easy tracking!
How do I reheat Spam Fried Rice after freezing?
Of course! To reheat, first, thaw the Spam Fried Rice in the fridge overnight. Then, in a skillet over medium heat, reheat the rice, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to maintain moisture. Stir frequently until heated through—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
Can I add different vegetables or proteins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Spam Fried Rice with any vegetables or proteins you enjoy. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even leftover chicken can work wonderfully. Just chop them evenly and add them during the cooking process, ensuring they are cooked through but still vibrantly colored.
Is Spam Fried Rice safe for pets?
Very important! While Spam Fried Rice is delicious for humans, it’s not recommended for pets due to the high sodium content in Spam. Always consult with your vet about safe foods for your furry friends before sharing your dining experience.
Irresistibly Easy Spam Fried Rice That Will Wow You
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Rice: Start by cooking the rice according to package directions, then refrigerate for about 3 hours.
- Scramble the Eggs: In a skillet, pour in beaten eggs and cook on medium heat for about 4 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- Sauté the Spam: In the same skillet, add diced Spam and cook for 5 minutes until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Onions: Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Veggies: Toss in peas and carrots, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender but vibrant.
- Combine the Ingredients: Return the rice, Spam, scrambled eggs, and green onions to the skillet and stir well to combine.
- Season the Dish: Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil, then season with pepper. Stir until evenly coated.