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spam onigiri

Japanese Spam Onigiri: Your New Favorite Snack

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5 from 5 reviews

Looking for a fun snack idea? This spam onigiri recipe is a perfect mix of savory, sweet, and umami! Easy to make and so satisfying at So Damn Delish.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 onigiri 1x

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle furikake, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions over the top to elevate the presentation.

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.
  • Author: SoDamnDelish
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Asian Food
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

  • 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