Spam Kimchi Fried Rice is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the savory flavors of Spam and the tangy zest of kimchi, creating a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Growing up, I often found myself enjoying this dish during family gatherings, where the aroma of sizzling rice and spices filled the air, making it a beloved staple in our household. The combination of the chewy texture of rice, the crunch of vegetables, and the umami richness of Spam makes this dish irresistible.

People love Spam Kimchi Fried Rice not only for its incredible taste but also for its convenience. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Join me as we explore the simple steps to create this delicious Spam Kimchi Fried Rice that will leave your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for better texture)
1 can of Spam (12 oz), diced
1 cup kimchi, chopped (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Cook the Rice**: If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to package instructions. For the best results, use day-old rice as it has a firmer texture that holds up better in fried rice dishes. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry out a bit. 2. **Prepare the Spam**: Open the can of Spam and carefully remove it. Dice it into small cubes, about 1/2 inch in size. This will help it crisp up nicely when cooked. 3. **Chop the Kimchi**: Take your kimchi and chop it into smaller pieces if it’s in large chunks. This will help distribute the flavor throughout the fried rice. 4. **Mise en Place**: Gather all your ingredients and have them ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Cooking Process

5. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when you add the Spam. 6. **Cook the Spam**: Add the diced Spam to the hot oil. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and crispy on the edges. This step is crucial as it adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the dish. 7. **Add Aromatics**: Once the Spam is crispy, add the minced garlic and diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! 8. **Incorporate the Kimchi**: Add the chopped kimchi to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the kimchi to heat through and infuse its flavor into the Spam and onions. 9. **Add the Rice**: Now it’s time to add the cooked rice. Break up any clumps with your hands or a spatula before adding it to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is well mixed with the Spam and kimchi. 10. **Season the Rice**: Pour in the soy sauce and gochujang. Mix well to ensure the rice is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more gochujang! 11. **Fry the Rice**: Let the rice cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the rice get a little crispy and develop a nice texture. If you prefer your fried rice a bit more charred, let it sit without stirring for a minute or two before mixing.

Adding the Eggs

12. **Create Space for Eggs**: Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet, creating a space for the eggs. If your skillet is large enough, you can do this without removing the rice. 13. **Scramble the Eggs**: Crack the two eggs into the empty space in the skillet. Scramble them gently with a spatula until they are just set, about 1-2 minutes. Once cooked, mix the scrambled eggs into the rice mixture. 14. **Finish with Sesame Oil**: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the fried rice and give it one last stir. This adds a lovely nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Assembling and Serving

15. **Garnish**: Remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Spam kimchi fried rice to a serving dish or individual bowls. Top with chopped green onions and, if desired, sprinkle some sesame seeds for an extra touch. 16. **Enjoy**: Serve your Spam kimchi

Conclusion:

In summary, this Spam Kimchi Fried Rice recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and a touch of nostalgia. The combination of savory Spam, tangy kimchi, and perfectly cooked rice creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is approachable and adaptable, making it perfect for any skill level. For serving suggestions, consider topping your Spam Kimchi Fried Rice with a fried egg for an extra layer of richness, or sprinkle some green onions and sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different proteins like chicken or tofu, or even add in some vegetables like peas or bell peppers to make it your own. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste preferences. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Spam Kimchi Fried Rice a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made it, I would love to hear about your experience. Did you add your own twist? How did it turn out? Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together and inspire each other with our culinary adventures!