Spam Fried Rice

A Delicious and Easy Spam Fried Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in minutes, Spam fried rice is the perfect dish! This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover rice while creating a flavorful, hearty meal that the whole family will love. The combination of crispy, savory Spam, fluffy eggs, and colorful veggies makes it both delicious and visually appealing.

Spam fried rice is a comfort food classic that is both budget-friendly and incredibly easy to make. Spam, a canned meat product, has been enjoyed for decades and is popular in many cultures, from Hawaiian to Asian cuisine. Its salty, slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with the soy sauce and seasonings used in fried rice. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is a great go-to option.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. It requires just a handful of ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry.

It’s also versatile—you can add different vegetables, swap white rice for brown rice, or even make it spicy with a touch of sriracha. I love making this on busy weeknights when I want a homemade meal but don’t have time for something complicated. It’s also great for meal prep since it reheats well the next day!

About Spam Fried Rice

Spam fried rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines crispy, pan-fried Spam with cooked rice, eggs, vegetables, and seasonings. It’s inspired by Asian fried rice recipes but stands out because of the unique taste and texture of Spam.

While traditional fried rice recipes often use chicken, shrimp, or pork, Spam brings a salty, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor that makes the dish extra delicious.

Unlike other fried rice variations, Spam fried rice doesn’t require any marinating or special cooking techniques. The Spam itself is already packed with flavor, so all you need to do is chop it up, crisp it in a pan, and mix it with rice and seasonings. It’s a great alternative to takeout and a fantastic way to use up leftover rice in a new and exciting way!

Why You’ll Love It

1. Super Quick & Easy – This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. No fancy techniques are needed!
2. Budget-Friendly – Spam is affordable and has a long shelf life, so you can keep it in your pantry for last-minute meals. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies.
3. Full of Flavor – The combination of crispy Spam, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich, umami-packed dish that tastes better than takeout.
4. Customizable – You can mix in any vegetables you have on hand, add a spicy kick with chili flakes, or swap white rice for brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
5. Great for Meal Prep – Spam fried rice stores well in the fridge and tastes just as good (if not better!) the next day. Perfect for prepping lunches ahead of time!

Ingredients

• For the Fried Rice:
  • 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  • 1 can Spam (12 oz), diced
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
• For the Seasoning:
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, but adds great flavor)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • ½ tsp black pepper
• For Cooking:
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp butter (optional, for extra richness)

Ingredient Notes

• Rice: Day-old, chilled rice works best because it’s drier and won’t turn mushy when stir-fried. If using fresh rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool before cooking.
• Spam: Feel free to use the original Spam or try different flavors like Spam with Bacon or Spam Lite for a twist. Frying it until crispy makes a big difference in texture!
• Soy Sauce & Oyster Sauce: These add depth to the dish, but if you don’t have oyster sauce, you can skip it or add a little more soy sauce.
• Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies are convenient, but you can use fresh veggies like bell peppers, diced carrots, or even cabbage.
• Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way! It adds a delicious nutty aroma, so don’t skip it if you have it.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large Skillet or Wok – A wok is ideal for stir-frying because it distributes heat evenly, but a large nonstick or stainless steel pan works just as well.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon – Helps stir and toss the ingredients easily without breaking the rice.
• Knife & Cutting Board – Essential for dicing the Spam, chopping green onions, and mincing garlic.
• Mixing Bowl – Handy for beating the eggs before adding them to the pan.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups – Helps ensure you get the right balance of seasonings for the best flavor.

I love using a carbon steel wok for fried rice because it gets super hot and gives the rice that slightly crispy texture. If you don’t have one, a good-quality nonstick pan is a great alternative for easy cleanup!

Cooking Instructions

1. Crisp the Spam (5 minutes):

• Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, then add the diced Spam.
• Cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the Spam from the pan and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Let the Spam sit for a minute before stirring so it gets extra crispy!

2. Scramble the Eggs (2 minutes):

• In the same pan, push any remaining oil to one side and pour in the beaten eggs.
• Let them cook for about 30 seconds, then gently scramble them until just set.
• Transfer the eggs to the same plate as the Spam.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the eggs! They should still be soft since they’ll continue cooking when mixed with the rice.

3. Sauté the Aromatics & Veggies (3 minutes):

• Add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for about 2–3 minutes until they’re heated through.

4. Fry the Rice (3–4 minutes):

• Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
• Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the rice is heated and starts to crisp slightly.

Pro Tip: If the rice is clumpy, wet your hands slightly and break it apart before adding it to the pan—it helps distribute it evenly!

5. Season & Mix Everything (2 minutes):

• Drizzle in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, and sesame oil.
• Stir well so that everything is evenly coated.
• Add the crispy Spam and scrambled eggs back to the pan, tossing everything together for another minute.

6. Garnish & Serve (1 minute):

• Sprinkle with chopped green onions and give it one final stir. Serve it hot and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Cold, Day-Old Rice – Fresh rice can turn mushy when stir-fried. If you only have fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet and pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to dry it out.
• Crisp the Spam First – Frying the Spam until it is golden brown adds a delicious crunch and deepens the flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Cook on High Heat – Fried rice tastes best when cooked quickly over high heat. This helps prevent the rice from getting soggy and gives it that classic fried rice texture.
• Don’t Overdo the Soy Sauce – Too much soy sauce can make the rice too salty and dark. Start with less, then add more if needed.
• Add Extras for More Flavor – Want a little heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha. Need more crunch? Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts.

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Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Rice Alternatives: Swap white rice for brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a different texture. Cauliflower rice works great if you’re going low-carb!
• Spam Varieties: Try flavored Spam like teriyaki, bacon, or even spicy Spam for a fun twist.
• Protein Options: Not a fan of Spam? Use diced ham, chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead.
• Vegetable Swaps: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or cabbage make great additions if you want more veggies.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and Spam Lite to reduce salt without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Fried Egg on Top – A sunny-side-up or over-easy egg adds a rich, creamy texture when the yolk mixes with the rice.
• Pair it with a Simple Soup – A light miso soup or egg drop soup complements the flavors and makes the meal feel extra comforting.
• With a Side of Kimchi or Pickled Veggies – The tanginess of kimchi or pickled cucumbers balances out the savory richness of the fried rice.
• Wrapped in Lettuce Leaves – For a fun and fresh twist, scoop the fried rice into lettuce cups and enjoy it as a handheld wrap.
• Topped with Sriracha or Spicy Mayo – A drizzle of sriracha or a quick homemade spicy mayo (mayo + sriracha) adds a creamy kick!

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Fried rice holds up well and even develops more flavor as it sits!
• Reheating (Stovetop): Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and stir-fry the rice for a few minutes until heated through. This keeps it from getting mushy.
• Reheating (Microwave): Add a small splash of water to the rice, cover loosely, and microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. The water helps bring back moisture.
• Freezing: You can freeze Spam fried rice in individual portions for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

I like to add a bit of butter or an extra dash of soy sauce when reheating to refresh the flavors and bring back the richness!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

Yes, but fresh rice tends to be softer and can get mushy when stir-fried. If using fresh rice, spread it out on a tray and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to dry it out before cooking.

What if I don’t have oyster sauce?

No problem! You can skip it or add a little extra soy sauce for saltiness and a pinch of sugar for a hint of sweetness. Hoisin sauce is another great alternative.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply swap the Spam for diced tofu or extra veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers. You can also use plant-based Spam alternatives!

Can I make this spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or even chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

What’s the best way to keep leftovers from drying out?

When reheating, add a tiny splash of water or broth to the rice and stir well. This helps restore moisture and prevents it from tasting dry.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just make sure your pan is big enough to handle the extra ingredients. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can make the rice steam instead of fry.

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I’d love to hear how this Spam fried rice turns out for you! Did you add any fun twists? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family! Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!