Groovy Grub: Retro Spam Sandwich Appetizers from the 1970s
Welcome, fellow food adventurers! Prepare to embark on a culinary time machine, setting the dial for the 1970s. Bell bottoms are optional, but a healthy dose of nostalgia is highly encouraged. Today, we’re diving headfirst into a retro appetizer that might raise an eyebrow or two: the Spam Sandwich. Yes, you read that right. Before you recoil in horror or burst into laughter, hear me out. In the ’70s, Spam was a pantry staple, a versatile ingredient that found its way into everything from main courses to, you guessed it, appetizers. And while it might not be considered gourmet fare today, there’s a certain kitschy charm and undeniable simplicity to these Spam sandwich appetizers that make them perfect for a retro-themed party or just a fun, quirky snack.
## A Blast from the Past: Why Spam Sandwiches?
Before we get to the recipes, let’s address the elephant in the room: Spam. This canned cooked pork product has a long and storied history, dating back to 1937. During World War II, it became a vital food source for soldiers, earning it a place in culinary history. In the post-war era, Spam remained popular, finding its way into countless American kitchens. It was affordable, convenient, and, dare I say, surprisingly tasty.
The Spam sandwich, in its various forms, became a lunchtime staple and a go-to appetizer for potlucks and parties. It was a symbol of a simpler time, when processed foods were embraced rather than shunned. So, let’s set aside our modern-day food snobbery and appreciate these Spam sandwich appetizers for what they are: a delicious and nostalgic reminder of the 1970s.
## Recipe 1: Classic Spam and Cheese Tea Sandwiches
This recipe is a simple, elegant (well, as elegant as Spam can be) take on the classic tea sandwich. It’s perfect for a retro-themed bridal shower or afternoon tea party.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (12-ounce) can of Spam, chilled
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
* 1 loaf of thinly sliced white bread, crusts removed
* Thinly sliced cheddar cheese or Swiss cheese
* Optional garnishes: parsley sprigs, pimiento strips
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Spam:** Remove the Spam from the can and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture and prevents the sandwiches from becoming soggy. Slice the Spam into very thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a meat slicer for this if you have one, but a sharp knife will work just fine. Chilling the Spam makes it easier to slice thinly and evenly.
2. **Make the Cream Cheese Spread:** In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Some people prefer a sweeter spread, in which case you could add a teaspoon of sugar or honey.
3. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Lay out the slices of bread on a clean work surface. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on each slice. Top half of the bread slices with a slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese, followed by a slice of Spam. Top with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down.
4. **Cut and Garnish:** Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each sandwich into four equal squares or triangles. Arrange the sandwiches on a serving platter and garnish with parsley sprigs or pimiento strips, if desired. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the sandwiches hold their shape.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the cream cheese spread.
* Use different types of bread, such as whole wheat or rye, for a more rustic flavor.
* Add a thin layer of lettuce or tomato to the sandwiches for extra freshness.
* Substitute the cheddar or Swiss cheese with provolone, Monterey Jack, or Havarti.
* For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based meat substitute instead of Spam.
## Recipe 2: Spam and Pickle Pinwheels
These pinwheels are a fun and festive appetizer that’s perfect for a party. The combination of salty Spam and tangy pickles is surprisingly delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (12-ounce) can of Spam, finely diced
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickles
* 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
* 1 tablespoon pickle juice
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 large flour tortillas
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Spam Mixture:** In a medium bowl, combine the diced Spam, softened cream cheese, chopped pickles, chopped onion, pickle juice, and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as Spam and pickles are already quite salty.
2. **Spread the Mixture:** Lay out the tortillas on a clean work surface. Spread an even layer of the Spam mixture over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. Make sure the layer is thick enough to provide flavor but not so thick that the pinwheels become difficult to roll.
3. **Roll and Chill:** Tightly roll up each tortilla, starting from one end. Wrap the rolled tortillas tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the pinwheels to firm up and makes them easier to slice.
4. **Slice and Serve:** Just before serving, remove the tortillas from the refrigerator and unwrap them. Using a sharp knife, slice each tortilla into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and serve chilled. You can use toothpicks to secure the pinwheels, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of pickles, such as sweet pickles or bread and butter pickles, for a different flavor profile.
* Add a tablespoon of chopped pimientos or roasted red peppers to the Spam mixture for color and flavor.
* For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce to the Spam mixture.
* Substitute the flour tortillas with spinach tortillas or sun-dried tomato tortillas for added flavor and visual appeal.
* For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cream cheese.
## Recipe 3: Mini Spam and Pineapple Skewers
These skewers are a tropical twist on the classic Spam appetizer. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the saltiness of the Spam perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (12-ounce) can of Spam, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 (20-ounce) can of pineapple chunks, drained
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* Wooden skewers
* Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
**Instructions:**
1. **Make the Marinade:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger. This marinade will add a delicious sweet and savory flavor to the Spam and pineapple.
2. **Marinate the Spam and Pineapple:** Add the Spam cubes and pineapple chunks to the marinade. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer the Spam and pineapple marinate, the more flavorful they will become.
3. **Assemble the Skewers:** Thread the Spam cubes and pineapple chunks onto the wooden skewers, alternating between the two. You can use as many or as few pieces of each as you like, depending on the size of the skewers.
4. **Grill or Bake:** Preheat your grill or oven to medium heat. If grilling, grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the Spam is lightly browned and the pineapple is slightly caramelized. If baking, bake the skewers for 10-12 minutes, or until the Spam is heated through and the pineapple is tender. Brush the skewers with the remaining marinade during the last few minutes of cooking.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Remove the skewers from the grill or oven and arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve warm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes.
* Use different types of fruit, such as mandarin oranges or cherries, instead of pineapple.
* For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce to the marinade.
* Serve the skewers with a dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce or teriyaki sauce.
* If you don’t have a grill or oven, you can pan-fry the skewers in a skillet over medium heat.
## Recipe 4: Spam and Olive Bites
These simple bites are incredibly easy to make and are a great option for a quick and easy appetizer. The salty olives complement the Spam perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (12-ounce) can of Spam, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 1 (6-ounce) can of pitted black olives, drained
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
* Crackers or baguette slices
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Spam and Olive Mixture:** In a medium bowl, combine the cubed Spam, black olives, mayonnaise, and sweet pickle relish. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. **Assemble the Bites:** Spread a spoonful of the Spam and olive mixture onto each cracker or baguette slice.
3. **Serve:** Arrange the bites on a serving platter and serve immediately. These are best served fresh, as the crackers can become soggy if they sit for too long.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use green olives or Kalamata olives instead of black olives for a different flavor.
* Add a tablespoon of chopped celery or onion to the Spam and olive mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
* For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce to the mixture.
* Substitute the crackers or baguette slices with celery sticks or cucumber slices for a healthier option.
* Top each bite with a small piece of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, for added flavor.
## Recipe 5: Deep-Fried Spam Bites with Spicy Dip
For a truly indulgent treat, try deep-frying Spam. These crispy bites are surprisingly addictive, especially when served with a spicy dipping sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (12-ounce) can of Spam, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup milk
* 1 cup breadcrumbs
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**For the Spicy Dip:**
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1 teaspoon honey
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Spam:** Cut the Spam into 1-inch cubes. Pat the cubes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. **Set up the Breading Station:** In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, pour the milk. In a third shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
3. **Bread the Spam:** Dip each Spam cube into the flour mixture, then into the milk, and finally into the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is fully coated. Repeat with all the Spam cubes.
4. **Deep-Fry the Spam:** Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded Spam cubes to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. **Prepare the Spicy Dip:** While the Spam is frying, prepare the spicy dip. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and honey. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your desired level of spiciness.
6. **Serve:** Remove the fried Spam bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with the spicy dip.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispy Spam bites.
* Add a pinch of chili powder to the flour mixture for extra heat.
* Experiment with different dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
* For a healthier version, try baking the breaded Spam bites in the oven instead of deep-frying them.
* Garnish the fried Spam bites with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
## Elevating the Humble Spam Sandwich Appetizer
While these recipes offer a nostalgic glimpse into the 1970s, there are ways to elevate the humble Spam sandwich appetizer to suit more sophisticated palates. Here are a few ideas:
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Instead of basic white bread, opt for artisan bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta. Choose high-quality cheese, such as Gruyere or Brie. And consider using gourmet pickles or olives.
* **Add Fresh Herbs and Vegetables:** Fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley, or chives, can add a burst of flavor to Spam sandwich appetizers. Similarly, adding fresh vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, or sprouts, can add a refreshing crunch.
* **Experiment with Different Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. Try adding a smear of pesto, a dollop of chutney, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
* **Presentation Matters:** Arrange the Spam sandwich appetizers on an elegant serving platter and garnish them with fresh herbs or edible flowers. A little attention to detail can go a long way.
## The Enduring Appeal of Spam
Despite its humble origins and sometimes questionable reputation, Spam continues to hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. It’s a reminder of simpler times, a symbol of resourcefulness and affordability. And while it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, Spam undeniably has a unique flavor and texture that can be surprisingly satisfying.
So, whether you’re a lifelong Spam lover or a curious newcomer, I encourage you to give these retro Spam sandwich appetizers a try. You might just be surprised at how delicious and nostalgic they can be. After all, sometimes the best things in life are the simplest – and the most unexpected.
## Final Thoughts: Embracing the Kitsch
These Spam sandwich appetizers aren’t about haute cuisine; they’re about embracing the kitsch and having some fun in the kitchen. They’re a conversation starter, a throwback to a different era, and a reminder that food doesn’t always have to be serious. So, crank up some disco music, break out the bell bottoms, and enjoy these groovy Spam sandwich appetizers. They’re sure to be a hit at your next retro-themed party!
Now, go forth and Spamify your life (in a delicious and nostalgic way, of course!). And don’t forget to share your creations and variations in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your Spam-tastic adventures!
Happy Cooking (and Eating)!