My Okinawan Grandma's Spam & Egg Onigiri (Rice Balls)

Name: My Okinawan Grandma's Spam & Egg Onigiri (Rice Balls)
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 700 grams or 4 servings of cooked plain rice; 1/2 can of Spam; 2 beaten eggs; 2 sheets of nori seaweed

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By AprilPublished Aug 10, 2023

Have you ever tasted a dish that instantly transports you back to your childhood?

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My Okinawan Grandma's Spam & Egg Onigiri (Rice Balls)

Total: 20 min
Servings: 8

Method

Start by preparing the fillings. Slice the Spam into 4 pieces. In Okinawa, there are various brands of canned pork available, such as Tulip.
Heat a generous amount of oil in a pan and fry the Spam slices on both sides until they are cooked.
Once the Spam is done, use the remaining oil in the pan to cook thin omelettes (similar to crepes). The salt from the Spam will season the eggs, so there is no need to add additional salt.
If you have a Homel Spam Musubi Maker, place it on top of a piece of seaweed and spread a thin layer of rice on it.
If you don't have a musubi maker, you can still make it by shaping the rice into a ball. Spread the rice across the center of a nori sheet, leaving enough space on each side to fold over later.
Next, add a layer of Spam and mayonnaise (you can omit the mayo if desired) on top of the rice.
Place the cooked omelette on top of the Spam layer.
Add another layer of rice on top and press it down firmly.
If you used a musubi maker, remove the mold. Then, wrap the edges of the nori seaweed around the layers of rice and Spam.
For an additional burst of flavor, you can mix in some freshly ground pepper

About this recipe

Introduction

Have you ever tasted a dish that instantly transports you back to your childhood? A dish that carries the flavors and memories of home? For me, that dish is my Okinawan Grandma's Spam & Egg Onigiri. The combination of salty spam, fluffy rice, and the surprise of a perfectly cooked egg nestled in the center creates a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. In this article, I'll share the story behind this beloved family recipe and why it holds a special place in my heart.

The Inspiration Behind the Recipe

Imagine being a young child, eagerly watching your grandma prepare a meal in the kitchen. The aroma of sizzling spam fills the air, and you can't help but sneak a taste when she's not looking. Those moments of anticipation and excitement are etched in my memory forever. My Okinawan Grandma, a master of creating delicious meals with limited ingredients, passed down this recipe to me, ensuring that her legacy lives on.

The Magic of Spam

Spam, the star of this dish, may not be the most glamorous ingredient, but it adds a unique and irresistible flavor to the onigiri. Its saltiness and savory qualities perfectly complement the simplicity of the rice. Just like life, sometimes the most unexpected ingredients can create the most magical experiences.

The Art of Crafting Onigiri

Creating the perfect onigiri is an art form in itself. It requires patience, precision, and, most importantly, love. The process begins with cooking the rice to perfection, achieving a delicate balance of moisture and fluffiness. Then, the rice is carefully molded into triangular shapes, forming the foundation of the onigiri. The spam and egg filling is added, creating a delightful surprise at the center of each rice ball. Finally, the onigiri is wrapped in a sheet of nori, completing the culinary masterpiece.

A Symbol of Love and Nourishment

My Okinawan Grandma's Spam & Egg Onigiri is more than just a delicious snack. It represents love, nourishment, and the power of food to bring people together. Just as my grandma cared for our family by preparing this dish, I now carry on her tradition, making it for my loved ones and sharing the story behind it.

Conclusion

My Okinawan Grandma's Spam & Egg Onigiri is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart. It represents the love, heritage, and tradition that has been passed down through generations. The combination of flavors and textures in each bite is a reminder of the joy and comfort that food can bring. Whether you decide to try this recipe or create your own version of onigiri, I hope it becomes a dish that brings you closer to your own cherished memories and traditions.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of meat instead of spam?: Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of meat, such as grilled chicken or marinated tofu, to create your own unique flavor combinations.
. Can I make onigiri without using eggs?: Absolutely! Onigiri can be customized to suit your dietary preferences. You can omit the egg or replace it with other fillings like pickled vegetables or seasoned seaweed.
. Can I freeze onigiri for later consumption?: Yes, you can freeze onigiri for future enjoyment. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in the freezer.
. How long do onigiri stay fresh?: Onigiri is best enjoyed fresh, but it can stay fresh for up to 24 hours if properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
. Can I make onigiri using brown rice?: Yes, you can substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier alternative. However, keep in mind that the texture and stickiness may differ slightly.
. What are some other popular onigiri fillings?: Aside from spam and egg, popular onigiri fillings include umeboshi (pickled plum), salmon, tuna, and konbu (seaweed).
. Can I use a rice cooker to cook the rice?: Yes, a rice cooker is a convenient and foolproof way to cook rice. Simply follow the instructions provided with your rice cooker for best results.
. Can I eat onigiri as a main meal?: While onigiri is commonly enjoyed as a snack or a side dish, it can also be the star of a meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or miso soup for a satisfying and balanced meal.