Hawaii is known for its delicious cuisine that is influenced by a mix of different cultures, including Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, and Portuguese. One popular dish that has become a staple in Hawaiian households is Spam Hawaiian style. This unique and flavorful dish combines the beloved canned meat, Spam, with the tropical flavors of pineapple and soy sauce. If you’re looking to try something new and exciting for dinner, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook Spam Hawaiian style.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of Spam

– 1 cup of pineapple chunks

– 1/4 cup of soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar

– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

– 1 clove of garlic, minced

– 1/2 onion, thinly sliced

– 2 green onions, chopped

– 1 red chili pepper, thinly sliced (optional)

Note: You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.

Instructions:

1. Drain and rinse the Spam to remove any excess salt.

2. Cut the Spam into thin slices or cubes, according to your preference.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves.

4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

5. Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, and red chili pepper (if using) to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.

6. Add the Spam slices or cubes to the skillet and cook until they are golden brown on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

7. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the Spam and stir well to coat each piece. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

8. Add the pineapple chunks and chopped green onions to the skillet, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pineapple is heated through.

9. Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed white rice or as a filling for sandwiches or tacos.

This Spam Hawaiian style recipe is a delicious and easy way to bring a taste of the islands into your home. The combination of savory Spam, tangy pineapple, and sweet soy sauce creates a flavorful dish that is sure to delight your taste buds. Give it a try and experience the unique flavors of Hawaii!

Section 1: What is Spam?

In the context of cooking, Spam refers to a type of canned meat product made from pork shoulder and ham. It was first introduced by the Hormel Foods Corporation in 1937 and has since become a popular ingredient in various dishes, including Hawaii-style cuisine.

Spam gained popularity during World War II due to its long shelf life and ease of consumption. It was widely distributed to soldiers and became synonymous with canned meat. The name “Spam” is actually a contraction of “spiced ham,” which accurately describes its flavor and preparation.

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Spam is often criticized for its high sodium content and processed nature. However, it continues to be enjoyed by many people around the world, particularly in Hawaii, where it has become an integral part of the local food culture.

History of Spam

The history of Spam dates back to the Great Depression when Hormel Foods Corporation was looking for a way to utilize surplus pork shoulder. Jay Hormel, the company’s president at the time, tasked a team of food scientists to develop a canned meat product that would appeal to consumers.

The team experimented with various recipes and seasonings until they came up with the perfect combination of pork shoulder and ham. The resulting product, Spam, quickly gained popularity and became a staple in American households.

Popularity in Hawaii

In Hawaii, Spam holds a special place in the local cuisine. It was introduced to the islands during World War II and became a favorite among the soldiers stationed there. After the war, Spam remained popular and was incorporated into traditional Hawaiian dishes.

Hawaiian-style Spam often involves marinating the meat in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and other ingredients to enhance its flavor. It is then grilled or pan-fried until crispy on the outside. This preparation method adds a unique twist to the already distinctive taste of Spam.

Key Points:
Spam is a canned meat product made from pork shoulder and ham
It gained popularity during World War II for its long shelf life
Hormel Foods Corporation introduced Spam in 1937
Spam is a popular ingredient in Hawaiian cuisine
It is often marinated and grilled for added flavor

Section 2: Traditional Hawaiian Cuisine

Hawaiian cuisine is a unique blend of cultural flavors and influences from various ethnicities that have inhabited the islands over the years. The traditional Hawaiian diet consists mainly of fresh seafood, pork, and tropical fruits

One of the most recognizable dishes in Hawaiian cuisine is the famous poi. Made from the taro root, poi is a starchy paste that is a staple in Hawaiian meals. It is often served with fish or meat dishes and is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.

Another iconic dish is kalua pig, which is a whole pig that is cooked in an underground oven called an imu. The pig is wrapped in banana leaves and is slow-cooked for several hours, resulting in tender and flavorful meat that is often served with poi and traditional side dishes.

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Locals also love to indulge in laulau, a dish made from pork, fish, or chicken wrapped in taro leaves and then steamed to perfection. This cooking method infuses the meat with the flavors of the taro leaves, making it incredibly juicy and tender.

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When it comes to seafood, poke is a must-try dish. Made from raw fish, usually ahi tuna, marinated in a soy sauce and sesame oil dressing, additional ingredients like seaweed, onions, and avocado are often added for extra flavor. It is a refreshing and delicious dish that showcases the freshness of Hawaiian seafood.

For those with a sweet tooth, malasadas are a popular Hawaiian dessert. These deep-fried pastries are reminiscent of doughnuts and are often filled with a variety of flavors such as haupia (coconut) or guava. They are a tasty treat that should not be missed during a visit to the islands.

In conclusion, traditional Hawaiian cuisine is a delicious fusion of flavors and influences that reflect the diverse cultural heritage of the islands. From poi and kalua pig to laulau and poke, there is something to satisfy every palate and leave you craving for more.

Section 3: Ingredients for Spam Hawaiian Style

To make Spam Hawaiian Style, you will need the following ingredients:

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1. Canned Spam: Make sure to get a can of Spam, which is a popular canned meat product. You can find it in most grocery stores.

2. Pineapple Slices: You will need canned pineapple slices for this recipe. Make sure to drain the pineapple slices before using them in the dish.

3. Teriyaki Sauce: Teriyaki sauce is a key ingredient in Spam Hawaiian Style. It adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. You can either make your own teriyaki sauce or buy it from the store.

4. Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is used to enhance the sweetness of the dish. Make sure to have some on hand before starting the recipe.

5. Green Onions: Green onions are used as a garnish for the dish. They add a freshness and a pop of color to the final presentation.

6. Rice: Rice is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, so make sure to have some cooked rice ready to serve with the Spam Hawaiian Style.

Note: Feel free to adjust the quantities of the ingredients according to your taste preferences.

Section 4: Preparation and Cooking Process

Before you start cooking your Spam Hawaiian style, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure the dish turns out delicious. Follow these instructions to properly prepare and cook your Spam:

Gather the Ingredients

First, gather all the necessary ingredients for your Spam Hawaiian style recipe. You will need:

  • 1 can of Spam
  • 1 cup of pineapple chunks
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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Prepare the Spam

Open the can of Spam and drain the excess liquid. Slice the Spam into thin strips or cubes, depending on your preference.

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Marinate the Spam

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and minced garlic. Mix well to create a marinade. Place the sliced Spam in the marinade, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. Allow the Spam to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Cook the Spam and Vegetables

In a frying pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, and cook until they start to soften. Add the marinated Spam to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the Spam is browned and crispy on the outside.

Add Pineapple Chunks

Next, add the pineapple chunks to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to heat through.

Serve and Enjoy

Your Spam Hawaiian style is now ready to be served. You can enjoy it as it is, or pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.

Prep Time Cook Time Total Time
30 minutes 10 minutes 40 minutes

FAQ

What is spam hawaiian style?

Spam Hawaiian style is a delicious dish that combines sliced spam, rice, and a sweet and savory glaze made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar.

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How do I cook spam hawaiian style?

To cook spam Hawaiian style, first slice the spam into thin slices. Then, cook the spam slices in a skillet until they are crispy. In a separate pot, prepare the glaze by combining pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Once the spam slices are crispy, pour the glaze over them and let them cook for a few more minutes until the glaze thickens. Serve the spam hawaiian style over a bed of rice.

Can I use any type of spam for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of spam for this recipe. However, the original Hawaiian style spam recipe traditionally uses the classic spam flavor.

What can I serve with spam hawaiian style?

Spam hawaiian style is commonly served over a bed of rice. You can also serve it with some steamed vegetables or a side salad to complete the meal.