This Spam Onigiri recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, perfect for a quick meal or snack that will impress your taste buds. It is one of my go-to recipes for busy days, outdoor adventures, or whenever my family craves something comforting and delicious.
A Perfectly Balanced Recipe
Whenever I ask my children what we should bring for our outings, they always answer in unison: onigiri.
It’s become a family tradition at this point, and honestly, I’m not surprised.
Onigiri is not only one of their favorite foods but also incredibly convenient to pack and carry.
Whether it’s a picnic, a road trip, or even a simple walk in the park, onigiri always seems to make the cut as our go-to snack.
Today, I’m making Spam onigiri using my homemade Spam.
Instead of the traditional triangular shape, I like to shape them into round balls.
Why? Because it’s easier for little hands to hold, and honestly, my kids love the fun, compact shape.
So, the next time you have some leftover rice sitting in the fridge, don’t settle for just fried rice (even though I absolutely love fried rice, especially Spam Fried Rice).
Try making onigiri instead—it’s versatile, easy to customize, and the perfect snack for any adventure! Whether shaped traditionally or as playful rice balls, they’re bound to bring smiles to the table.
Why You‘ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with flavor: Savory luncheon meat, creamy cheese, and umami-rich seaweed create a mouthwatering combination.
- Easy to make: With just a few steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet impressive.
- Versatile: Great for a snack, lunchbox, or light meal.
- Crowd-pleaser: Both kids and adults will enjoy this cheesy, savory delight!
Ingredients
- 400g cooked rice
- 300g luncheon meat
- 6 slices cheese
- 2 tbsp crushed seaweed
- 2 roasted seaweed sheets, torn into strips about 6 cm wide
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp salt and pepper
- 1 tsp cooking oil
Sauce:
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
Prepare the Luncheon Meat:
- Slice the luncheon meat into medium-thick pieces.
- Heat a pan over low heat, add the slices, and pan-fry until both sides are lightly browned. Set aside. Note: I don’t add oil in this step, similar to my Spam Sandwich Recipe, since the Spam releases its own fat as it cooks.
Season the Rice:
- In a bowl, combine the cooked rice, sesame seeds, crushed seaweed, sesame oil, and salt and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly by hand to ensure the rice absorbs the seasoning evenly.
Prepare Seaweed and Cheese:
- Tear the roasted seaweed sheets into strips similar in size to the luncheon meat slices.
- Lay a piece of luncheon meat on a strip of seaweed, place a slice of cheese on top, and fold the seaweed to enclose the filling.
Assemble the Onigiri:
- Take a portion of the seasoned rice and flatten it on your palm.
- Place the seaweed-wrapped luncheon meat and cheese in the center.
- Cover with another portion of rice and shape into a ball or triangle, pressing firmly to seal.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix light soy sauce, oyster sauce, ketchup, and honey until smooth.
Cook the Onigiri:
- Heat a pan with 1 tsp cooking oil.
- Place the rice balls in the pan over low heat, turning frequently to cook evenly.
- Brush the sauce evenly on the surface of each rice ball and continue cooking until the sauce thickens and creates a glossy coating.
Serve:
- Remove from the pan and let cool slightly. Slice and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!
Notes:
- You can adjust the size of the rice balls to suit your preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, but short-grain rice or sushi rice works best as it’s sticky and holds its shape well. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice balls in advance and store them in the fridge. Cook and brush with the sauce just before serving. - Can I replace luncheon meat?
Absolutely! Try cooked bacon, ham, or grilled tofu for a different flavor.
Homemade Spam Onigiri: Quick, Delicious, and Portable
Ingredients
- 400 g cooked rice
- 300 g luncheon meat
- 6 slices cheese
- 2 tbsp crushed seaweed
- 2 roasted seaweed sheets torn into strips about 6 cm wide
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp salt and pepper
- 1 tsp cooking oil
Sauce:
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
Prepare the Luncheon Meat:
- Slice the luncheon meat into medium-thick pieces.
- Heat a pan over low heat, add the slices, and pan-fry until both sides are lightly browned. Set aside.Note: I don't add oil in this step, similar to my Spam Sandwich Recipe, since the Spam releases its own fat as it cooks.
Season the Rice:
- In a bowl, combine the cooked rice, sesame seeds, crushed seaweed, sesame oil, and salt and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly by hand to ensure the rice absorbs the seasoning evenly.
Prepare Seaweed and Cheese:
- Tear the roasted seaweed sheets into strips similar in size to the luncheon meat slices.
- Lay a piece of luncheon meat on a strip of seaweed, place a slice of cheese on top, and fold the seaweed to enclose the filling.
Assemble the Onigiri:
- Take a portion of the seasoned rice and flatten it on your palm.
- Place the seaweed-wrapped luncheon meat and cheese in the center.
- Cover with another portion of rice and shape into a ball or triangle, pressing firmly to seal.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix light soy sauce, oyster sauce, ketchup, and honey until smooth.
Cook the Onigiri:
- Heat a pan with 1 tsp cooking oil.
- Place the rice balls in the pan over low heat, turning frequently to cook evenly.
- Brush the sauce evenly on the surface of each rice ball and continue cooking until the sauce thickens and creates a glossy coating.
Serve:
- Remove from the pan and let cool slightly. Slice and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!