Breaded Spam Steaks: A Crispy, Savory Delight

Spam, that iconic canned meat product, often evokes strong opinions. Some love it for its salty, savory flavor and versatility, while others remain skeptical. However, even the staunchest Spam critic might find themselves converted by this recipe: Breaded Spam Steaks. This dish transforms humble Spam into a crispy, golden-brown delight that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a unique breakfast. The breading adds texture and flavor, elevating Spam to a whole new level of deliciousness. Get ready to discover a Spam recipe that will surprise and delight!

Why You’ll Love Breaded Spam Steaks

* **Easy and Quick:** This recipe requires minimal ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Spam is an affordable protein source, making this a cost-effective meal option.
* **Surprisingly Delicious:** The crispy breading perfectly complements the salty Spam, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish.
* **Versatile:** Serve it as a main course, in sandwiches, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides.
* **Kid-Friendly:** The crispy texture and familiar flavors often make this a hit with children.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **1 (12-ounce) can of Spam:** You can use classic Spam, Spam Lite, or any of the flavored varieties like Spam with Bacon or Spam Teriyaki.
* **1/2 cup all-purpose flour:** This helps the egg mixture adhere to the Spam.
* **1 large egg:** Beaten, for dipping the Spam.
* **1 cup breadcrumbs:** Panko breadcrumbs provide the best crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will also work. Consider using seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon salt:** To enhance the flavor of the breading.
* **1/4 teaspoon black pepper:** Freshly ground black pepper is recommended.
* **1/4 teaspoon garlic powder:** Adds a savory depth.
* **1/4 teaspoon onion powder:** Complements the garlic powder and adds another layer of flavor.
* **2 tablespoons vegetable oil:** For frying the Spam steaks. You can also use canola oil or any other neutral cooking oil.
* **Optional: Your favorite dipping sauce:** Ketchup, mustard, sriracha mayo, or sweet chili sauce are all excellent choices.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Cutting board:** For slicing the Spam.
* **Knife:** For slicing the Spam.
* **3 shallow dishes or bowls:** For the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
* **Large skillet or frying pan:** For frying the Spam steaks.
* **Tongs:** For flipping the Spam steaks.
* **Paper towels:** For draining excess oil.

Step-by-Step Instructions

**1. Prepare the Spam:**

* Remove the Spam from the can and place it on a cutting board.
* Using a sharp knife, slice the Spam into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. You should get about 8-10 slices from a standard can of Spam.
* Pat the Spam slices dry with paper towels. This will help the breading adhere better.

**2. Set Up the Breading Station:**

* In the first shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour.
* In the second shallow dish, beat the egg with a fork until well combined.
* In the third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.

**3. Bread the Spam Slices:**

* Take one Spam slice and dredge it in the flour, making sure to coat all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
* Dip the floured Spam slice into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
* Transfer the egg-dipped Spam slice to the breadcrumbs and press gently to coat evenly on both sides. Make sure the breadcrumbs are well adhered.
* Repeat the breading process with the remaining Spam slices.

**4. Fry the Breaded Spam Steaks:**

* Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a breadcrumb dropped into it sizzles gently.
* Carefully place the breaded Spam steaks into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to fry them in batches.
* Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the breading is golden brown and crispy.
* Use tongs to carefully flip the Spam steaks and continue frying until the other side is golden brown.

**5. Drain and Serve:**

* Remove the fried Spam steaks from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
* Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips for Perfect Breaded Spam Steaks

* **Don’t skip patting the Spam dry:** This is crucial for ensuring the breading sticks properly.
* **Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness:** Panko breadcrumbs are larger and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a crispier coating.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy Spam steaks.
* **Adjust the seasonings to your liking:** Feel free to add other spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
* **For a healthier option, bake the Spam steaks:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded Spam steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
* **Add a cheesy twist:** Sprinkle shredded cheese (like cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack) over the breaded Spam steaks during the last minute of frying or baking.
* **Make it gluten-free:** Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

Breaded Spam Steaks are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

* **As a main course:** Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, mashed potatoes, vegetables, or salad.
* **In sandwiches:** Use them as a filling for sandwiches or sliders with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
* **Over rice:** Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice with a drizzle of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce.
* **For breakfast:** Serve alongside eggs, toast, and hash browns for a hearty breakfast.
* **As an appetizer:** Cut the Spam steaks into smaller pieces and serve with dipping sauces for a party appetizer.
* **Spam Musubi Variation:** Create a deconstructed Spam Musubi by serving the breaded spam over rice with a sheet of nori on the side.

Variations and Add-Ins

* **Spicy Breaded Spam:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Italian Breaded Spam:** Add Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
* **Asian-Inspired Breaded Spam:** Add ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the egg mixture.
* **Cheesy Breaded Spam:** Mix shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese into the breadcrumb mixture.
* **Coconut Breaded Spam:** Use shredded coconut instead of breadcrumbs for a tropical twist.
* **Everything Bagel Breaded Spam:** Mix everything bagel seasoning into the breadcrumbs for a flavorful and textured crust.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the breaded Spam steaks ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Here’s how:

* Bread the Spam slices according to the recipe instructions.
* Place the breaded Spam steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
* Cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
* When ready to cook, fry or bake the Spam steaks as directed.

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store cooked Breaded Spam Steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the Spam steaks in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on 4 servings per can of Spam):

* Calories: Approximately 300-350
* Protein: 10-12g
* Fat: 20-25g
* Carbohydrates: 15-20g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.*

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use Spam Lite for this recipe?**

A: Yes, you can use Spam Lite. It will have a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still work well in this recipe.

**Q: Can I use flavored Spam?**

A: Absolutely! Flavored Spam, such as Spam with Bacon or Spam Teriyaki, can add an interesting twist to this recipe. Just be mindful of the added sodium and sugar content.

**Q: Can I air fry the Spam steaks?**

A: Yes, you can air fry the Spam steaks. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded Spam steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

**Q: Can I freeze Breaded Spam Steaks?**

A: While you *can* freeze them, the texture may change upon thawing. The breading might become slightly soggy. To freeze, let the cooked Spam steaks cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

**Q: What dipping sauces go well with Breaded Spam Steaks?**

A: Many dipping sauces complement Breaded Spam Steaks. Ketchup, mustard, sriracha mayo, sweet chili sauce, BBQ sauce, and even ranch dressing are all great options. Experiment and find your favorite!

**Q: Can I use different types of breadcrumbs?**

A: Yes! While Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for their extra crispiness, you can use regular breadcrumbs, Italian breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers or cornflakes for a different texture and flavor.

**Q: How can I prevent the breading from falling off?**

A: Make sure to pat the Spam slices dry before breading, and ensure that the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the Spam to help them adhere. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying.

Conclusion

Breaded Spam Steaks are a surprisingly delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy meal. With its crispy breading and savory flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, grab a can of Spam and give it a try – you might just be surprised at how much you love it! This simple recipe elevates Spam from a humble canned good into something truly special. Whether you’re a longtime Spam enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Breaded Spam Steaks are worth exploring. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!