Go Back
+ servings

Authentic Hawaiian Spam Musubi Recipe

Learn how to make authentic Hawaiian spam musubi with this easy recipe. Featuring slices of caramelized Spam on seasoned rice wrapped in nori seaweed, this portable snack is perfect for beach days, lunch boxes, or as a quick protein-packed treat.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 -10 musubi
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 276

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can 12 oz Spam, cut into 8-10 even slices
  • 2 cups short-grain white rice rinsed until water runs clear
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons mirin Japanese sweet cooking wine
  • 4-5 sheets nori seaweed, cut into 2-inch strips
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Optional: furikake seasoning for sprinkling

Method
 

  1. Prepare the rice: Cook 2 cups of rinsed short-grain white rice according to package directions. Once cooked, transfer to a large bowl and gently fold in rice vinegar and 1 tablespoon sugar while the rice is still warm. Allow to cool slightly until handleable.
  2. Make the Spam glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and mirin until the sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Cook the Spam: Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Spam slices and cook for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
  4. Glaze the Spam: Pour the soy sauce mixture over the Spam slices and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes per side, until the sauce reduces and creates a caramelized coating on the Spam. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. Assemble the musubi: Place a strip of nori on a clean work surface. Position your musubi mold (or modified Spam can) in the center of the nori strip.
  6. Layer the ingredients: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, then press about ¼ cup of rice into the mold, creating an even layer. Optionally sprinkle with furikake seasoning. Place a slice of glazed Spam on top of the rice. Add another thin layer of rice if desired.
  7. Form the musubi: Press down firmly with the musubi press or a flat object that fits inside your mold. While pressing down, carefully remove the mold, leaving a neat rectangular stack.
  8. Wrap with nori: Quickly wrap the nori strip around the rice and Spam stack, using a few drops of water on the end of the nori to seal it.
  9. Slice and serve: For easier eating, slice each musubi in half diagonally with a sharp knife. Serve immediately or wrap individually in plastic wrap for later consumption.

Nutrition

Calories: 276kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 866mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!