Shredded Spam Tacos: A Surprisingly Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal
Spam. The canned meat that evokes strong opinions. Love it or hate it, it’s a pantry staple for many, and it’s surprisingly versatile. If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly, and unexpectedly delicious meal, look no further than shredded Spam tacos. Yes, you read that right. Shredded Spam tacos. Don’t knock it ’til you try it! This recipe takes the familiar salty flavor of Spam and transforms it into a tasty taco filling with a satisfying texture and a delightful blend of savory and fresh flavors. It’s a fun twist on traditional tacos that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
This recipe is not about simply slapping a slice of Spam into a tortilla. Instead, we’re going to shred the Spam, which creates a texture that’s reminiscent of pulled pork or shredded chicken. This allows the Spam to crisp up nicely in the pan and absorb all the delicious flavors from the seasonings and toppings.
Why Shredded Spam Tacos?
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Spam is an inexpensive protein source, making this a wallet-friendly meal.
* **Surprisingly Delicious:** The combination of salty Spam, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas is surprisingly addictive.
* **Versatile:** You can customize the toppings to your liking, making it a meal that everyone will enjoy.
* **Unique and Fun:** It’s a fun twist on traditional tacos that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **1 (12-ounce) can of Spam:** Regular Spam works best, but you can experiment with different varieties like Spam Lite or Spam with Bacon.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** For sautéing the Spam.
* **1/2 onion, finely chopped:** Adds flavor and texture.
* **1 clove garlic, minced:** Essential for adding a savory depth.
* **1 teaspoon chili powder:** Provides warmth and a subtle kick.
* **1/2 teaspoon cumin:** Adds an earthy and smoky flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika:** Enhances the smoky flavor.
* **Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional):** For a little extra heat.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** To season the Spam.
* **12 corn or flour tortillas:** Your choice, depending on your preference.
**Toppings (Suggestions):**
* **Shredded lettuce:** Adds a fresh crunch.
* **Diced tomatoes:** For a juicy sweetness.
* **Diced red onion:** Provides a sharp bite.
* **Avocado or guacamole:** Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
* **Sour cream or Greek yogurt:** For a tangy coolness.
* **Salsa:** Your favorite salsa, from mild to hot.
* **Cilantro:** For a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
* **Lime wedges:** To squeeze over the tacos for a burst of acidity.
* **Shredded cheese (optional):** Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
* **Pickled Jalapenos (optional):** For a spicy kick.
Equipment
* **Large skillet or frying pan:** For cooking the Spam.
* **Cutting board:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Knife:** For chopping vegetables and Spam.
* **Fork:** For shredding the Spam.
* **Spatula or tongs:** For stirring and flipping the Spam.
* **Tortilla warmer or microwave:** For warming the tortillas.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create delicious shredded Spam tacos:
**1. Prepare the Spam:**
* Remove the Spam from the can and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps it to crisp up better in the pan.
* Using a fork, shred the Spam into small, thin pieces. You can also use your fingers to pull it apart, but a fork is usually easier and quicker. Aim for a texture similar to shredded chicken or pulled pork. You want it broken down nicely so it can get crispy edges when cooked. Don’t worry about making it perfect; some variation in size is fine.
**2. Sauté the Vegetables:**
* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Make sure the pan is heated well before adding the oil and vegetables.
* Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute more, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
**3. Cook the Spam:**
* Add the shredded Spam to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir to combine.
* Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the Spam mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the Spam is heated through and slightly crispy. The goal is to get some nice browning and crispy edges on the Spam. Avoid overcooking the Spam, as it can become dry. The spices should be fragrant and coat the spam nicely. Scrape the bottom of the pan occasionally to make sure nothing is sticking.
**4. Warm the Tortillas:**
* While the Spam is cooking, warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can use a tortilla warmer, microwave, or dry skillet to warm them.
* **Tortilla Warmer:** If using a tortilla warmer, stack the tortillas inside and warm according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
* **Microwave:** If using a microwave, wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-30 seconds, or until warm and pliable. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough.
* **Dry Skillet:** If using a dry skillet, heat a skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 15-30 seconds per side, or until warm and pliable. Be careful not to burn them.
**5. Assemble the Tacos:**
* Fill each warm tortilla with the shredded Spam mixture.
* Top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, avocado or guacamole, sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa, cilantro, and lime wedges.
**6. Serve and Enjoy:**
* Serve the tacos immediately and enjoy! Offer a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their tacos to their liking.
Tips and Variations
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Spam mixture for extra heat. You could also use a spicier salsa or add pickled jalapenos as a topping.
* **Add some sweetness:** A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar can add a touch of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the Spam.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Substitute the Spam with crumbled tofu or tempeh. Season with the same spices for a similar flavor profile.
* **Add some vegetables:** Add diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the Spam mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend.
* **Make it a bowl:** Serve the shredded Spam over rice or quinoa with your favorite taco toppings for a deconstructed taco bowl.
* **Try different tortillas:** Experiment with different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat, spinach, or gluten-free tortillas.
* **Add a sauce:** A drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo can add extra flavor and richness.
* **Make it ahead:** The shredded Spam mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before assembling the tacos.
* **Get creative with toppings:** The possibilities are endless! Think about what flavors complement Spam and create your own unique taco combinations. Mango salsa, pineapple salsa, or even a simple slaw can add a refreshing twist.
* **Toast the tortillas:** Before filling them, lightly toast the tortillas in a dry skillet or over an open flame to add a slightly charred flavor and make them more pliable.
* **Double the recipe:** This recipe is easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** When cooking the Spam, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will prevent it from browning properly. Cook it in batches if necessary.
* **Adjust the seasonings:** Taste the Spam mixture before assembling the tacos and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Shredded Spam tacos are a versatile meal that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Mexican rice:** A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos.
* **Refried beans:** Another classic Mexican side dish.
* **Corn on the cob:** Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a refreshing side dish.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad or a Mexican-inspired salad with corn, black beans, and avocado.
* **Chips and salsa:** A great appetizer to serve before the tacos.
* **Guacamole:** A must-have for any taco night.
* **Elote (Mexican street corn):** A flavorful and popular side dish.
* **Queso dip:** A warm and cheesy dip that’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips.
* **Margaritas:** A refreshing cocktail to enjoy with your tacos.
* **Mexican beer:** A cold Mexican beer is the perfect accompaniment to shredded Spam tacos.
Nutritional Information (approximate, per taco)
* **Calories:** 250-350 (depending on toppings)
* **Protein:** 10-15 grams
* **Fat:** 15-25 grams
* **Carbohydrates:** 20-30 grams
*Note: This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*
Embrace the Spam!
Shredded Spam tacos are a fun, affordable, and surprisingly delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to try something new and embrace the Spam! With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of creativity, you can transform this humble canned meat into a taco sensation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy a taco night that’s both unexpected and unforgettable.
Enjoy your Shredded Spam Tacos! Let me know in the comments what your favorite toppings are!
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