Japanese Spam Onigiri: Your New Favorite Snack

Name: Japanese Spam Onigiri: Your New Favorite Snack
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice, cooked and slightly cooled; 4 slices spam (classic, low-sodium, or flavored); 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into strips; Furikake: A Japanese rice seasoning mix for extra flavor; Sesame seeds: For a nutty crunch; Green onions: Finely chopped, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Have you ever had one of those moments where you’re craving something quick, easy, and totally delicious? Let me introduce you to spam onigiri, my go-to comfort food that combines savory spam with fluffy rice, all wrapped up in nori.

If you’re like me and love simple dishes that pack a punch, you’ll also adore this Fried Gyoza Recipe – the perfect sidekick to onigiri! Trust me, the crispy dumplings and rice balls together are a match made in heaven. Let’s dive into the world of onigiri!

Table of Contents

Why Spam Onigiri Is So Popular

Portable and convenient: Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a quick snack on the go.
Budget-friendly: Simple ingredients that don’t break the bank.
Customizable: Swap the spam for egg or add extra flavors like teriyaki sauce or spicy mayo.

Iconic blend of flavors: The sweet-savory glaze of onigiri spam recipe, paired with the neutral rice and crisp nori, creates the ultimate umami bite.

My Simple Spam Onigiri Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 onigiri
Method: Stovetop

Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients

For the Onigiri:

2 cups Japanese short-grain rice, cooked and slightly cooled
4 slices spam (classic, low-sodium, or flavored)
2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp sugar
1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into strips

Optional Toppings:

Furikake: A Japanese rice seasoning mix for extra flavor
Sesame seeds: For a nutty crunch
Green onions: Finely chopped, for garnish

Kitchen Tools

Rice cooker or pot
Non-stick frying pan
Plastic wrap

Rice paddle or spoon
Sharp knife

Instructions

Cook the Spam:

Slice the spam: Cut into rectangular slices, about ¼-inch thick.
Pan-fry: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Place the spam slices in the pan and cook until both sides are golden brown.
Glaze the spam: Mix soy sauce and sugar in a small bowl. Pour the glaze into the pan and let it coat the spam, cooking until caramelized, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Rice:

Cook the rice: If you haven’t already, cook the rice according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly so it’s easy to handle.
Shape the rice: Use plastic wrap or wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Scoop about ½ cup of rice, shaping it into a triangle, oval, or ball.

Assemble the Onigiri:

Layer the spam: Place a slice of glazed spam on top of the rice shape.
Wrap with nori: Use a strip of seaweed to secure the spam to the rice. If the nori doesn’t stick, lightly moisten the ends with water.

Optional Garnish: Sprinkle furikake, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions over the top to elevate the presentation.

Pairing Ideas

Spam and Egg Onigiri: Add a layer of fluffy scrambled eggs under the spam for a hearty variation.

Miso Soup: The warmth and richness of miso soup complement the salty-sweet flavors of the onigiri.
Pickled Vegetables: Serve with pickled radish or cucumber for a refreshing crunch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 240

Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 8g

Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g

Cholesterol: 15mg

Notes

Storage: Wrap leftover onigiri tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Reheating: If needed, microwave the onigiri for 20-30 seconds to refresh the texture.

Rice sticking tip: Keep a bowl of water nearby to wet your hands while shaping the rice.

There’s a reason spam onigiri is a beloved snack worldwide. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and downright delicious. Give this spam onigiri recipe a try, and don’t forget to explore more amazing dishes at So Damn Delish.

FAQs

Q: Can I make spam onigiri ahead of time?

A: Yes! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within 2 days.

Q: What’s the best rice to use for onigiri?

A: Japanese short-grain rice is ideal because it’s sticky enough to hold its shape.

Q: Can I make spam onigiri vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! Replace spam with tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) or grilled tofu for a veggie-friendly option.

Q: How do I keep the nori crisp?

A: Add the nori just before serving to keep it from absorbing moisture from the rice. Enjoy making spam onigiri and sharing them with friends and family! 😊