How Spam Is Used in Different Dishes Around the World (Page 3 ) | November 4, 2025

2. Spam in Hawaiian Dishes
Hawaii is perhaps the place most famously associated with Spam. Locals consume more Spam per person than anywhere else in the United States. Introduced during World War II, it became part of island culture and remains deeply loved today.

Spam Musubi, the Hawaiian version of the Japanese dish, is sold in convenience stores, gas stations, and even fine dining restaurants. Hawaiians also add Spam to fried rice, omelets, and noodle soups, blending it with tropical flavors like pineapple and teriyaki sauce. Its salty richness pairs perfectly with sweet and savory island ingredients.

3. Spam in Western Dishes
In the United States and the United Kingdom, Spam was initially seen as a quick, affordable protein. Today, it’s making a nostalgic comeback in comfort food and gourmet reinterpretations.

In America, Spam can be found in breakfast scrambles, grilled cheese sandwiches, or even Spam burgers topped with eggs or cheese. Some people use it as a bacon substitute, frying thin slices until crispy and serving them with pancakes or waffles.

In the UK, Spam fritters — battered and fried Spam slices — are a classic dish that dates back to the postwar era. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re often served with chips or peas for a traditional British feel.

4. Creative and Modern Uses
Modern chefs and home cooks continue to experiment with Spam, turning it into everything from tacos to sushi rolls to pasta toppings. Its versatility lies in its flavor balance — salty, savory, and slightly sweet which complements rice, noodles, bread, and even vegetables.

You can dice Spam into fried rice, mix it into ramen, or cube it for salads. When grilled or air-fried, Spam develops a crispy edge that enhances its taste and texture.

see more on the next page