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There are tons of different luncheon meats out there, but for me, SPAM holds a special place. It’s the one I grew up on, and it’s also probably the most well-known. This salty, savory goodness is a super quick way to level up your instant ramen. Don’t knock it ’til you try it.
Elevating your Noodles with SPAM
For those who might be new to it, SPAM is a well-known brand of canned cooked pork and ham. It’s a shelf-stable product that’s been around for a long time. The first thing you’ll notice when you take a bite is its prominent saltiness. It’s also savory and rich, which is exactly why it pairs so well with rice and instant noodles.
If you’re pressed for time, it’s easy to either toss these directly into your noodles or quickly pan-sear them.
How to Slice SPAM
Sometimes, simplicity is key. Just a few slices of SPAM can add a satisfyingly salty and meaty element to your ramen without any fuss.
How to do it: Open up that can of SPAM and carefully slice it into your preferred thickness. About ¼ to ½ inch slices works well. You can layer these directly on top of your cooked ramen for a quick and easy protein addition. The heat of the broth will warm them up perfectly.
The Flavor Result: You get that classic SPAM flavor which is savory, slightly salty, and comforting. The texture remains a bit softer, melding nicely with the hot noodles and broth.
How to Cube SPAM
Want SPAM in every slurp? Cubing it up is the way to go! These little morsels distribute the flavor throughout your bowl.
How to do it: First, open up that can of luncheon meat and slice it into thick pieces, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Then, stack a few of these slices on top of each other and cut them into small, bite-sized cubes. This makes the cubing process much more manageable and even. Once cubed, you can mix the SPAM right in with your noodles and other toppings.
The Flavor Result: You get that consistent SPAM flavor in every bite, making for a more integrated and substantial ramen experience. The cubes also tend to soak up a bit of the broth’s flavor.
How to Pan-Sear SPAM
If you have the time, I HIGHLY recommend pan-searing your SPAM. A little pan-searing transforms it into crispy, golden-brown bites that add amazing texture and a richer flavor to your ramen.
How to do it: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (you don’t even need oil if you don’t want it since SPAM has its own fat). Add your sliced or cubed luncheon meat to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re nicely browned and slightly crispy. The edges should get a little caramelized.
The Flavor Result: Pan-searing intensifies the savory flavor of the SPAM and creates a crispy exterior with a slightly softer interior. This adds a nice textural contrast to the soft noodles and makes your ramen feel a bit more gourmet.
My Instant Ramen Suggestions
SPAM pairs with a ton of different ramen flavors. I find it great with:
- Spicy Ramens: Not only does it help cut the spice a bit, it also enhances the flavors in the spicy ramen.
- Samyang Buldak Spicy Chicken Stir-fried Ramen
- Liuquan Snail Rice Noodle
- Creamy Broths: For rich, creamy ramen broths, it offers a savory bite that helps balance the richness.
- Beef-Flavored Ramens: The savory notes naturally enhance beef-flavored instant noodles.
- Simple Savory Ramens: It adds a substantial flavor boost to basic savory broths
SPAM: Your Speedy Ramen Sidekick
So there you have it. Whether you’re slicing it straight from the can or taking a few extra minutes to pan-sear it to crispy perfection, SPAM is a reliable and delicious way to satisfy those ramen cravings in a flash.
Have you ever tried SPAM in your ramen? What’s your favorite way to add it? Let me know in the comments below!
