Spam Creole
A flavorful creole-inspired rice dish with savory Spam, vibrant peppers, and a tangy tomato sauce, perfect for a hearty, quick, and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large frying pan.
- Stir in instant rice, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper.
- Cook, stirring until lightly browned.
- Add hot water, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and prepared mustard.
- Bring to a boil.
- Cook, stirring until thick.
- Add slices of Spam (or Treat) and cook for 3 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or using a blend of spices such as Cajun seasoning. If Spam isn't your preference, turkey Spam or even vegetarian options can work well. Instant brown rice can be used for a healthier twist, and you can swap the tomato sauce for diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Make sure to taste and adjust salt accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spam Creole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing coleslaw or even a fruit salad for a sweet contrast. This dish also makes a great filling for burritos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep the rice moist and prevent it from drying out. Microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spam Creole contains roughly 581 calories, with 8g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (130% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2128mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of rice instead of instant rice?
Yes, you can use regular long-grain rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio according to the package instructions. Typically, regular rice takes longer to cook, so be sure to simmer it until tender before adding the Spam.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace Spam with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice. Adding extra vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, can also enhance texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the tomato sauce. Alternatively, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking for a flavorful kick that complements the dish nicely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).