Spam Roll Sushi with Refreshing Sea Grapes
[Healthy Meal] Delicious Spam Roll Sushi / Featuring Sea Grapes (Umibudo)
Received a gift of Spam and need to use it up! Let’s try to remove as much salt and oil as possible for a healthier, lighter dish. This recipe makes Spam roll sushi, a delightful way to enjoy Spam, complemented by the unique texture and oceanic freshness of sea grapes (umibudo).
Main Ingredients
- 1 small can Spam (approx. 100-120g)
- 1 serving of rice (approx. 200g), warm
- 10 strands fresh Sea Grapes (Umibudo)
- A little Yuzu jam (optional)
Rice Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Salty-seaweed salt (or sea salt)
- 2 tsp Plum extract (Maesil-cheong)
- 2 pinches Red pepper flakes (Gochugaru or chili flakes)
- 1 tsp Vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Salty-seaweed salt (or sea salt)
- 2 tsp Plum extract (Maesil-cheong)
- 2 pinches Red pepper flakes (Gochugaru or chili flakes)
- 1 tsp Vinegar
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the fresh sea grapes. Although listed first, this step is generally done closer to serving to maintain freshness.
Step 2
Thinly slice one small can of Spam (about 100-120g). To ensure safe and neat slicing, wear disposable gloves and use a slicer or appropriate tool, working slowly and carefully. Thin slices are easier to roll and provide a better texture.
Step 3
Blanch the sliced Spam in boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This process helps to significantly reduce the saltiness and excess oil from the Spam. After blanching, rinse with cold water and drain well.
Step 4
Soak the prepared sea grapes in cold water just before using them. Soaking for too long can make them mushy, so it’s best to hydrate them shortly before assembly. Once hydrated, drain them thoroughly in a colander.
Step 5
In a bowl, combine the warm rice (1 serving) with the ‘Rice Seasoning’ ingredients: 1/2 tsp salty-seaweed salt, 2 tsp plum extract, 2 pinches of red pepper flakes, and 1 tsp vinegar. Gently mix the rice with a spatula or spoon until the seasoning is evenly distributed. Taste as you go and adjust the amount of seasoning to your preference. The red pepper flakes add a hint of spice; feel free to adjust the quantity or omit them entirely.
Step 6
Take small portions of the seasoned rice and shape them into oval or sushi-like mounds with your hands. Place a rice mound onto a slice of the blanched Spam. If desired, add a small amount of yuzu jam for a touch of sweetness. Alternatively, a dab of wasabi mixed with soy sauce is also a delicious addition! (Yuzu jam is optional).
Step 7
Carefully roll the Spam around the rice mound. Ensure the seam of the Spam is on the bottom to help maintain the shape.
Step 8
Arrange the finished Spam roll sushi on a plate. Garnish by gently twisting and placing the prepared sea grapes on top of the sushi. Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of soy sauce and wasabi. Enjoy the delightful combination of the fresh, oceanic sea grapes and the savory, yet light, Spam roll!
