There’s something undeniably satisfying about transforming humble ingredients into a delightful dish that surprises your taste buds. When I first experimented with making Spam Rice Balls, I was looking to break the cycle of mundane weeknight meals that had crept into my kitchen. Who knew that a simple can of Spam could be my ticket to flavor-packed joy?
These delightful rice balls are not only a conversation starter, but they also combine the comforting essence of sushi with a twist. With every bite, the seasoning seeps into the fluffy rice and crispy Spam, creating a burst of savory goodness you’ll crave again and again. They’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for a quick lunch or even as a fun party snack to impress your friends.
Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe and discover how to create these delicious little bundles of joy that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
Why are Spam Rice Balls so irresistible?
Simplicity at its best: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying and uniquely flavored dish.
Savory delight: The contrast of crispy Spam with fluffy rice and tangy mayo brings an explosion of flavor.
Versatile snack: Enjoy them warm or chilled—perfect for lunchboxes or party platters!
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves finger foods, and these rice balls are sure to impress at gatherings.
Quick and easy: Whip them up in no time and break free from boring meals.
Plus, if you’re interested in more unique ideas, check out our easy sushi recipes!
Spam Rice Balls Ingredients
For the Rice Mixture
• Cooked Rice – 2 cups; use day-old rice for better texture and easier shaping.
• Scrambled Egg – 1 large; adds moisture and a gentle richness to the rice balls.
• Diced Spam – 1 can; its savory flavor enhances the dish, making it hearty and satisfying.
• Scallion – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped; for a fresh, aromatic crunch that brightens the dish.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – 1 tablespoon; provides a salty depth that complements the Spam perfectly.
• Mirin – 1 tablespoon; adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• Sesame Oil – 1 teaspoon; its nutty flavor adds complexity to the rice balls.
• Sugar – 1 teaspoon; a pinch of sweetness ties together all the flavors beautifully.
For Assembly
• Furikake – 1 tablespoon; a sprinkle of this Japanese seasoning takes the rice balls to the next level.
• Mayo – 2 tablespoons; adds creaminess and a touch of tang.
• Seaweed – 1 sheet; provides an authentic sushi-inspired touch and enhances the visual appeal.
For Cooking
• Neutral Oil – 2 tablespoons; for frying the Spam until crispy and golden, creating a delightful texture contrast.
Dive into these ingredients and prepare for a fun culinary adventure with your very own Spam Rice Balls!
How to Make Spam Rice Balls
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Heat Oil: Add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil to a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, whisk the egg with a pinch of salt and pour it into the pan, scrambling until fully cooked. Set aside.
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Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of mirin, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
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Sauté Spam: In the same skillet, sauté the diced Spam until crispy and golden brown. Pour in the sauce mixture and continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, sautéed Spam, scrambled eggs, scallions, 2 tablespoons of mayo, seaweed, and 1 tablespoon of furikake until everything is evenly combined.
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Shape Rice Balls: With clean hands, form the mixture into compact balls, wetting your hands with water if necessary to prevent sticking. Aim for golf ball-sized spheres for easy handling.
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Serve: Enjoy your Spam Rice Balls warm or chilled, paired with a small dish of soy sauce for dipping.
Optional: Add some extra furikake on top for a lovely garnish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Spam Rice Balls?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing these flavorful little bites with delicious accompaniments.
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Crispy Edamame: Lightly salted and crunchy, they’re the perfect finger food that complements the savory rice balls beautifully.
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Seaweed Salad: This fresh, tangy salad brings a delightful contrast to the richness of Spam Rice Balls, enhancing their umami flavor.
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Pickled Ginger: A pop of zingy brightness that refreshes the palate in between bites, making every mouthful a delightful adventure.
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Soy Sauce Dipping Bowl: A small dish filled with soy sauce for a savory dip elevates this snack experience to new heights, perfect for those who crave that salty kick.
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Sushi Rolls: Pair with simple cucumber or avocado sushi rolls for a bite-sized journey through flavors and textures that harmonize wonderfully.
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Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea balances the savory bites, offering a soothing finish to your meal.
Indulge your senses and create a spread that celebrates the joyous experience of sharing delicious food with loved ones!
Make Ahead Options
These Spam Rice Balls are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the rice mixture (cooked rice, scrambled egg, diced Spam, scallions, mayo, seaweed, and furikake) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine everything and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For best results, shape the rice balls just before serving; this ensures they remain delicious and don’t lose their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a skillet for 2-3 minutes if serving warm, or simply serve chilled with soy sauce for dipping. With these make-ahead tips, dinner is sure to be quick and satisfying!
How to Store and Freeze Spam Rice Balls
Fridge: Keep your Spam Rice Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their texture and flavors, making for a tasty snack anytime.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rice balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months, making future meals easy and convenient.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water to retain moisture, ensuring they stay delicious!
Serving: Enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge or at room temperature for a quick and satisfying bite, perfect for lunch or gatherings.
Expert Tips for Spam Rice Balls
Perfect Rice Texture: Use day-old rice – it’s drier and easier to mold, ensuring your Spam Rice Balls hold their shape.
Avoid Overcooking Spam: Sauté carefully until just crispy to prevent it from becoming too hard or chewy; you want that perfect contrast.
Season Well: Don’t skip the sauce; it adds depth. Taste and adjust the soy sauce and mirin to match your flavor preference.
Wet Your Hands: Wetting your hands with water while shaping helps prevent the rice mixture from sticking, making it easier to form perfect balls.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins for extra flavor and texture, expanding the versatility of your Spam Rice Balls!
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for a delightful balance to the savory richness of the rice balls.
Spam Rice Balls Variations
Get ready to elevate your Spam Rice Balls and satisfy your cravings with these exciting twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for a bold heat that will ignite your taste buds. This fiery addition gives the rice balls a zesty punch perfect for heat lovers!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in a half cup of finely chopped bell peppers or carrots into the rice mixture for a vibrant crunch and extra nutrition. It’s a colorful way to enhance the texture and flavors while creating a more wholesome meal.
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Low-Carb Option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb version that still delivers on taste. This will keep the essence of the dish intact while being kinder to the waistline.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in ¼ cup of shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, with the rice and Spam for a creamy, melty surprise with every bite. The gooey texture will surely become a family favorite!
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Sesame Flare: Drizzle toasted sesame seeds over the finished rice balls for a nutty flavor and a crunchy bite. Not only do they taste delightful, but they add a beautiful touch to your presentation as well!
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Breakfast Twist: Incorporate diced veggies like spinach or peppers along with a sprinkle of your favorite breakfast sausage for a hearty breakfast version. These rice balls can transform your breakfast game, making mornings exciting!
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Herbed Rice: Infuse the rice with a blend of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, to brighten the flavor and elevate the dish. This easy addition gives an aromatic freshness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
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Cranberry Surprise: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet-tart element that pairs surprisingly well with the savory flavors of Spam. It’ll introduce a delightful contrasting taste, making your rice balls even more memorable!
Spam Rice Balls Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use?
I recommend using day-old cooked rice for your Spam Rice Balls. It’s drier and holds its shape much better, making it easier to mold the rice balls into those perfect compact shapes.
How should I store leftover Spam Rice Balls?
Store your Spam Rice Balls in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep for about 3 days. It’s the best way to preserve their delightful texture and flavors for snacking later!
Can I freeze Spam Rice Balls?
Absolutely! To freeze them, lay the rice balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months, making it super convenient for quick meals!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Spam Rice Balls?
To reheat, remove the rice balls from the freezer and thaw them overnight in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. It’s an easy way to bring back that delightful texture!
Are Spam Rice Balls safe for kids and pets?
While Spam is generally safe for kids in moderation, it is high in sodium, so be cautious. For pets, it’s best to consult your vet, as certain ingredients (like soy sauce) can be harmful to them. Always ensure your snacks are suitable for the whole family!
What if my Spam Rice Balls are falling apart?
If your Spam Rice Balls aren’t holding their shape, it could be due to using freshly cooked rice, which tends to be softer and stickier. To fix this, try mixing in a little more cooked rice or let the mixture sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up. Wetting your hands when shaping the balls can help reduce stickiness too!
Easy Spam Rice Balls: A Fun Twist on Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil to a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, whisk the egg with a pinch of salt and pour it into the pan, scrambling until fully cooked. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of mirin, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced Spam until crispy and golden brown. Pour in the sauce mixture and continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, sautéed Spam, scrambled eggs, scallions, 2 tablespoons of mayo, seaweed, and 1 tablespoon of furikake until everything is evenly combined.
- With clean hands, form the mixture into compact balls, wetting your hands with water if necessary to prevent sticking. Aim for golf ball-sized spheres.
- Enjoy your Spam Rice Balls warm or chilled, paired with a small dish of soy sauce for dipping.