Spam Musubi Sandwich
A fusion of Hawaii's beloved Spam musubi and sandwich culture. Teriyaki-glazed Spam, seasoned rice, nori, and a touch of furikake between slices of sweet Hawaiian bread. This portable creation captures the Aloha State's unique food identity.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Slice the Spam: Remove Spam from the can and slice lengthwise into 8 even pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. Pat dry with paper towels.
Make teriyaki glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and sesame oil until sugar dissolves.
Cook the Spam: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add Spam slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and slightly crispy. Pour teriyaki glaze over the Spam and cook for another minute, flipping to coat both sides. Remove and set aside.
Season the rice: In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Fold into warm cooked rice. The rice should be slightly sticky and seasoned.
Toast the bread: Butter both sides of the Hawaiian bread slices. Toast in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
Add optional sauce: If desired, spread a thin layer of Kewpie mayo or sriracha mayo on one slice of bread.
Layer the rice: Place a portion of seasoned rice on the bottom slice of bread. Press gently to compact. Sprinkle with furikake seasoning.
Add the Spam: Place 2 slices of teriyaki-glazed Spam on top of the rice. Drizzle with any remaining glaze from the pan.
Add nori: Place a half sheet of nori over the Spam. The nori adds that essential musubi element and umami flavor.
Close and serve: Top with the second slice of bread. Cut diagonally if desired. Serve immediately while the Spam is still warm and the bread is crispy.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Hawaii's Spam love: Hawaii consumes more Spam per capita than any other state. It arrived during WWII and became a beloved local staple.
- Use Hawaiian bread: King's Hawaiian bread adds sweetness that complements the salty Spam perfectly. It's the ideal bread for this fusion sandwich.
- Try different Spam varieties: Spam comes in many flavors - try Spam with bacon, Spam lite, or Spam teriyaki for variations.
- Add a fried egg: Top the Spam with a fried egg for a loco moco-inspired version.
- Pack for the beach: This sandwich travels well wrapped in foil - perfect for beach picnics just like traditional musubi.
- Furikake matters: Look for nori komi furikake (with seaweed) at Asian markets for authentic flavor.