Spam Musubi Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and portable snack that brings a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen, this Spam Musubi Recipe is just the ticket! It’s one of those dishes that never fails to put a smile on my face. The salty-sweet flavors of the marinated Spam, combined with warm sushi rice and crispy nori, create a delightful bite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Plus, it’s super fun to make!
This recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re packing lunch for work or serving up a tasty appetizer at your next get-together, these little rice-and-Spam packages are sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these tasty bites in no time.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this flavorful combination; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
- Make-ahead option: Prepare and store them in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go snack throughout the week.
- Deliciously customizable: Change up flavors with different marinades or add your favorite toppings.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Spam Musubi! You probably have most of these items on hand already. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Spam
- 12 ounces Spam
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup sugar
For Assembly
- Nori (roasted seaweed used for sushi, cut into halves or thirds)
- 6 cups cooked sushi rice
- furikake (optional)
Variations
One of the best parts about this Spam Musubi Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
- Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken, tofu, or even teriyaki beef for a different spin!
- Add veggies: Include slices of cucumber or avocado for added freshness and texture.
- Change up the seasoning: Experiment with different marinades like teriyaki sauce or sweet chili sauce for unique flavors.
- Make it spicy: Add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle some chili flakes to heat things up!
How to Make Spam Musubi Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Spam
Slice the Spam into about 8-10 slices depending on how thick you prefer it. Place those slices in a Ziplock bag. Mix together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar until the sugar dissolves completely. Pour this marinade over the Spam and let it soak in for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it infuses the meat with flavor!
Step 2: Cook the Spam
After marinating, drain off any excess liquid and fry each slice of Spam in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until each side is slightly crispy, which adds texture and makes every bite even more delicious.
Step 3: Prepare Your Nori and Mold
Grab a strip of nori and lay it shiny-side down on your cutting board. Using your Musubi mold (or any small rectangular container), place it across the center of the nori. This will help shape your rice perfectly!
Step 4: Add Sushi Rice
Now it’s time to add your cooked sushi rice! Spoon it into the mold, pressing down firmly so it’s nice and compact—about 1-1½ inches high works well. Dipping your fingers in water helps prevent sticking here; trust me, it makes things easier!
Step 5: Optional Toppings
For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to sprinkle on some furikake at this point. It adds a lovely crunch and depth that elevates your musubi even more.
Step 6: Assemble Your Musubi
Carefully remove the mold from the rice—you’ll see a neat block sitting right on top of your nori! Now place a slice of fried Spam right on top of that rice block.
Step 7: Wrap Up Your Musubi
Finally, fold one side of the nori over the spam then wrap up the other side like you’re making a little gift package! If needed, use a drop of water on your finger to seal everything together. Serve these warm for an unbeatable treat!
Enjoy making this delightful dish with friends and family—it’s bound to become a favorite!
Pro Tips for Making Spam Musubi Recipe
Making Spam Musubi at home can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!
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Choose quality rice: Using sushi rice is crucial because its sticky texture helps hold the musubi together. Look for short-grain sushi rice for the best results.
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Let the Spam marinate longer: If time permits, marinate the Spam slices for at least 30 minutes or even overnight. This extra time enhances the flavor, making each bite more delicious.
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Use a mold for perfect shapes: If you don’t have a musubi mold, a small rectangular container or even a clean empty can will work. The mold ensures uniform sizes, making them easier to serve and eat.
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Keep your hands wet: Dipping your fingers in water while handling the sticky rice prevents it from sticking to your hands. This makes forming and shaping your musubi much easier.
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Experiment with fillings: While the classic Spam is fantastic, feel free to get creative! You can add slices of avocado, pickled vegetables, or cucumber for added texture and flavor.
How to Serve Spam Musubi Recipe
Serving Spam Musubi is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary items that enhance its flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable!
Garnishes
- Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top adds a pleasing crunch and an earthy flavor.
- Sliced green onions: Chopped scallions bring a fresh note that balances the richness of the Spam.
- Pickled ginger: Adding a few pieces on the side provides a zesty contrast that cleanses the palate.
Side Dishes
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Edamame: These lightly salted green soybeans are a protein-packed snack that complements the flavors of musubi perfectly. They’re nutritious and easy to prepare!
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Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup pairs well with musubi, enhancing your meal with comforting umami flavors while being light on calories.
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Seaweed salad: This refreshing salad made from wakame seaweed tossed in sesame oil and vinegar offers a crunchy texture and bright flavors that enhance your dining experience.
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Fruit salad: A light fruit salad with tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and kiwi adds sweetness and freshness to balance out the savory aspects of the musubi.
Enjoy creating this delightful Spam Musubi recipe at home! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Spam Musubi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to handle leftovers and keep your musubi fresh.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the musubi to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Place wrapped musubi in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap each musubi tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.
- Place wrapped musubi in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- For best texture, consume within the first month.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen musubi overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Heat in a microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through.
- For a crispy texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about this Spam Musubi recipe.
Can I use something other than Spam for this Spam Musubi Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute Spam with tofu or another plant-based protein that you enjoy. Just ensure it’s seasoned well to give you that delicious umami flavor!
How can I make this Spam Musubi Recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, consider using low-sodium soy sauce and reducing the sugar content. You can also increase fiber by incorporating vegetables like sliced cucumbers or carrots into your musubi.
What is the best way to serve Spam Musubi?
Spam Musubi tastes great both warm and at room temperature. Serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a lunchbox meal alongside fresh fruits and veggies!
Can I add toppings to my Spam Musubi?
Yes! Feel free to customize your musubi with toppings like avocado slices, pickled vegetables, or additional furikake for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this Spam Musubi recipe! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with delicious flavors that transport you straight to Hawaii. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just a cozy night at home, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy creating your own version and share it with friends and family—happy cooking!
Spam Musubi
If you’re craving a taste of the islands, this Spam Musubi Recipe brings Hawaiian flavors right to your kitchen. With layers of marinated Spam, warm sushi rice, and crispy nori, these portable snacks are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. They’re fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat! This versatile dish can be customized with various proteins and toppings, making it a hit among kids and adults alike. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a quick lunch, these delightful bites are sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 musubi 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients
- 12 ounces chicken (or substitute protein like tofu)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup fruit juice (like pineapple or apple)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Nori sheets (cut into halves or thirds)
- 6 cups cooked sushi rice
- Optional: furikake seasoning
Instructions
- Marinate your chicken by slicing it into 8-10 pieces and combining soy sauce, fruit juice, and sugar in a bag. Let it soak for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium heat until crispy on both sides.
- Lay out a strip of nori on your work surface and place a musubi mold in the center.
- Fill the mold with sushi rice, pressing down firmly.
- Add the cooked chicken on top of the rice.
- Fold the nori over the filling like wrapping a gift, sealing with a little water if needed.
- Serve warm or store for later!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 musubi (approx. 120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
