My mother used to pull a tin of Spam from the pantry on Sunday afternoons and turn it into something comforting and a little celebratory for the end of the week. The smell of garlic and onion in hot oil, the clink of a wooden spoon against a well-worn skillet, and a bowl of warm rice felt like home. One of my favorites from those quiet kitchens is Spam Fried Rice, the kind of dish that eats like a hug and makes the whole family sit down together again.
Why You’ll Love It
This Spam Fried Rice is dependable and quick, perfect for those evenings when you have cooked rice in the fridge and want a filling dinner with minimal fuss. It loves a weeknight crowd, feeds hungry kids and picky eaters, and stretches a little Spam into a comforting, savory meal. The combination of crisped Spam, soft rice, bright scallions, and a runny egg on top makes it feel special without a lot of work.
Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes |
Cook Time: 12 minutes |
Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked day old white rice, cold and separated
- 12 ounces Spam, diced into 1/2 inch cubes (about half a can)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten, plus 1 or 2 for frying on top if desired
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced on the bias, whites and greens separated
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. When hot, add diced Spam and cook until edges are browned and slightly crisp about 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer Spam to a plate and set aside.
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Add chopped onion and the white parts of the scallions. Cook, stirring, until softened and beginning to brown about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Push the aromatics to one side of the pan and add the beaten eggs into the cleared space. Scramble gently until just set, then break into pieces and mix with the onions.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and the cold rice. Break up any clumps with the back of your spatula and let the rice toast briefly, stirring occasionally, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Return the browned Spam to the pan along with the thawed peas and carrots. Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil. Stir and toss everything together over high heat until heated through and evenly seasoned about 2 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
- Transfer to bowls and top each serving with a fried sunny side up egg if you like. Scatter the green parts of the scallions over the top and serve hot.
Tips & Tricks
- Use day old rice that is cold and dry for the best texture so the grains stay separate and fry instead of becoming mushy.
- Cut the Spam into even cubes so it browns uniformly. Press it into the hot pan without moving for the first minute to get a good crust.
- Cook on high heat whenever you add the rice to get a slight toasting and wok hei flavor. Have everything prepped and nearby.
- Taste before adding more soy sauce since Spam can be salty. Add in small increments.
- If you want a restaurant style finish, add a small pat of butter at the very end and toss briefly.
Serving Ideas
- Serve as a quick weeknight dinner with a simple cucumber salad on the side.
- Plate individually topped with a fried egg for a casual brunch spread.
- Bring to a potluck in a large shallow dish with a bowl of sliced scallions and soy sauce on the side.
- Make smaller portions and serve as a main for packed lunches or bento boxes.
- Add a wedge of lime and sriracha at the table for guests to customize heat and brightness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of rice is best for Spam Fried Rice
Short or medium grain rice can work but jasmine rice gives a nice flavor. The key is that the rice is cooked and well chilled so it fries rather than steams.
Can I make this gluten free
Yes use a gluten free soy sauce or tamari and confirm that your Spam is gluten free. Some canned varieties contain gluten so check the label.
How do I get the Spam crispy without burning the pan
Use medium high heat and let the Spam sit in the pan for the first minute to develop color before stirring. If the pan becomes too dark, lower the heat slightly and remove browned pieces to keep them from overcooking.
Can I add more vegetables
Yes add diced bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, or shredded cabbage. Cook heartier vegetables first so they have time to soften.
Conclusion
There is something quietly reassuring about a bowl of Spam Fried Rice that comes from simple pantry ingredients turned into warming comfort. It is forgiving, fast, and flexible enough to suit picky eaters or adventurous cooks who want to add a twist. Make it on a busy weeknight, bring it to a casual gathering, or keep a tray of leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch. Trust the basic steps, taste as you go, and let small swaps make the dish yours.
