If Hawaii had an official snack, Spam Musubi would be a strong contender. This humble creation – a slice of grilled Spam atop a block of rice, wrapped in nori – has won the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and visitors alike. Let’s dive into the world of Spam Musubi and learn how to make this island staple at home.
A Brief History
Spam Musubi is a prime example of Hawaii’s melting pot of cultures. It combines Spam, introduced to Hawaii during World War II, with Japanese-inspired musubi (rice ball). This fusion snack gained popularity in the 1980s and has been a local favorite ever since.
Why Hawaiians Love Spam
Spam might raise eyebrows elsewhere, but in Hawaii, it’s a pantry staple. Its long shelf life and versatility made it popular during wartime, and those qualities kept it in favor long after. Today, Hawaii consumes more Spam per capita than any other U.S. state.
Making the Perfect Spam Musubi
Ready to try your hand at this island classic? Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 can of Spam
- 3 cups cooked sushi rice
- 3 sheets of nori (seaweed)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Optional: furikake seasoning
Instructions:
- Slice the Spam into 8-10 slices and fry until crispy on both sides.
- Mix soy sauce and sugar in a bowl. Add the fried Spam and marinate for a few minutes.
- Grill the marinated Spam slices until caramelized.
- Press warm sushi rice into a musubi mold or form by hand into a rectangle.
- Place a slice of grilled Spam on top of the rice.
- Wrap the rice and Spam with a strip of nori.
- Optional: Sprinkle furikake on the rice before adding the Spam for extra flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use warm rice: It helps the musubi hold its shape better.
- Don’t oversaturate the nori: It should be crisp, not soggy.
- Experiment with flavors: Some people add a thin omelet layer or brush the Spam with teriyaki sauce.
Beyond the Basic Musubi
While the classic Spam Musubi will always have a place in Hawaii’s heart, creative versions have popped up over the years. Some feature avocado, others use different meats like chicken katsu. There’s even a deep-fried version for the extra indulgent!
Whether you’re making it at home or grabbing one from a local shop, Spam Musubi is more than just a snack. It’s a handheld bit of Hawaii’s history and culture. So the next time you bite into one, remember – you’re tasting a piece of the islands.