Delicious Braised Potatoes with Spam
Spam and Potato Braise: A Kid-Friendly Recipe
Here’s a delightful way to get your kids to love braised potatoes! This dish features the perfect harmony of savory Spam and tender potatoes, making it an irresistible side dish. With simple ingredients, anyone can follow this easy recipe to win over the whole family’s taste buds. It’s perfect for everyday meals and lunchboxes alike!
Main Ingredients- 3 medium potatoes
- 1/2 medium onion
- 1/2 can (approx. 200g) Spam
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes that are easy for children to eat. Cutting them too large might increase cooking time, so aim for a moderate size. Place the cubed potatoes in boiling water and boil for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Be careful not to overcook them until they become mushy. Drain the boiled potatoes and set them aside.
Step 2
Now, it’s time to sauté the aromatics that will enhance the flavor of the braise. Heat 1 Tbsp of cooking oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the chopped green onions and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn them. This step releases the aromatic oils from the green onions, adding depth to the dish.
Step 3
Once the green onions have released their fragrance, add 1 Tbsp of minced garlic to the pan and sauté together until the garlic is fragrant. It’s important to manage the heat carefully to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step 4
When the garlic aroma becomes noticeable, add the diced onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and tender. Sautéing the onions thoroughly will bring out their natural sweetness, further enhancing the potato braise.
Step 5
When the onions are about halfway translucent, add the drained, pre-boiled potatoes to the pan. Gently stir-fry them with the vegetables. Be careful not to break the potatoes. Lightly searing the surface of the potatoes with the pan’s heat will help them absorb the braising liquid better.
Step 6
Once the potatoes and vegetables are somewhat sautéed, add all the braising sauce ingredients. Combine 2 Tbsp soy sauce and 1 Tbsp oyster sauce for umami, and 1 Tbsp sugar and 1 Tbsp corn syrup (or honey) for sweetness. Stir everything together as it cooks, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 7
As the sauce starts to be absorbed by the potatoes, add the cubed Spam to the pan and stir-fry together. The oil and flavor from the Spam will mingle with the potatoes, creating an even richer taste. Adjust the amount of soy sauce considering the saltiness of the Spam.
Step 8
Continue to stir-fry until the Spam and potatoes are well combined. Finally, sprinkle a pinch of black pepper to add a touch of zest and enhance the overall flavor. The peppery notes will cut through any richness and add complexity.
Step 9
Once all ingredients are well sautéed, finish by drizzling in 1 Tbsp of sesame oil for a nutty aroma. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the sauce is slightly thickened. Be mindful not to over-simmer, as the potatoes might break down. Simmer just until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 10
Transfer the deliciously braised Spam and potato dish to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a final touch, making the dish both visually appealing and flavorful. Serve hot with steamed rice for a delightful meal!
