Spam Musubi
Our Family Story
Spam musubi is everywhere in Hawaii - from 7-Eleven to school cafeterias to family gatherings. This simple snack perfectly represents local cuisine: taking what we have and making it delicious. Every family has their own twist.
Recipe from: Family Recipe
Ingredients
Glaze
Substitutions
Instructions
- 1
Slice the Spam lengthwise into 6 even pieces, about 1/4 inch thick.
Tip: Use the Spam can as a mold later - save it!
- 2
Mix soy sauce, sugar, and mirin in a small bowl to make the glaze.
- 3
Pan-fry the Spam slices over medium-high heat until caramelized on both sides, about 2 minutes per side. Brush with glaze while cooking.
Tip: No oil needed - Spam has enough fat.
- 4
Mix furikake into the warm rice.
- 5
Place a strip of nori on a flat surface. Using the Spam can lined with plastic wrap as a mold, press rice firmly into the bottom, add a Spam slice, then more rice on top.
Tip: Pack the rice firmly so it holds together.
- 6
Unmold onto the nori strip and wrap tightly. Wet the end of the nori to seal.
Spam musubi is the quintessential Hawaiian snack. You’ll find it at every convenience store, gas station, and potluck across the islands. It’s the perfect handheld food - satisfying, portable, and deeply nostalgic for anyone who grew up in Hawaii.
Notes
Let the musubi rest seam-side down for a few minutes before eating so the nori softens slightly.
Tips
- Musubi molds make this much easier - find them at Asian grocery stores
- Wrap in plastic wrap for packed lunches
- Best eaten same day, but keeps overnight in the fridge
Variations
- Add a strip of egg omelet (tamago style)
- Use teriyaki Spam for extra flavor
- Add a slice of takuan (pickled daikon)
- Make breakfast musubi with scrambled eggs
Storage
Wrap individually in plastic wrap. Refrigerate up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before eating.
