Spam Fries, Air-Fried: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Spam fries are a delicious snack and a Hawaiian favourite. They are easy to make and can be cooked in an air fryer in a few simple steps. All you need is the contents of a can of Spam and some additional seasoning and sauces of your choice. The thin shape of the fries makes them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. You can serve them with a variety of dips, such as spicy mayo, ketchup, or an egg yolk.

Choosing the right type of Spam

Another factor to consider when choosing your Spam is the sodium content. If you are watching your sodium intake, opting for low-sodium Spam is advisable. This option contains less salt, resulting in a lighter taste. On the other hand, if you enjoy a saltier flavour, the original Spam variety would be a better choice.

Additionally, you can choose between different sizes of Spam cans. Typically, a 12-ounce can of Spam is sufficient for making fries. However, if you are serving a larger group, you may consider purchasing multiple cans or opting for larger sizes.

When selecting Spam for your fries, it is also worth considering the texture you desire. For a crispier texture, it is recommended to cut the Spam into thinner slices or matchsticks. This increases the surface area available for browning and crisping. If you prefer a tender and juicy texture, cutting the Spam into slightly thicker pieces will help retain moisture during the cooking process.

Lastly, if you are creating a breaded coating for your Spam fries, choosing the right type of Spam is crucial. Original Spam or flavoured varieties can be used, but it is important to note that the flavour of the Spam may influence the overall taste of the breading. Additionally, chilling the Spam in the refrigerator before slicing and breading can help the slices hold together better during the coating process.

Preparing the Spam for frying

Next, decide whether you want to add a marinade or breading. A marinade of brown sugar and shoyu (Japanese soy sauce) will give your Spam a smoky and sweet flavour. Alternatively, you can create a breading with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Seasoning your Spam with salt, pepper, and parsley will also enhance its flavour.

If you want to add a breading, set up a production line with three bowls: one with flour, one with egg, and one with breadcrumbs. Season the flour and the breadcrumbs with salt and pepper, and add some parsley to the breadcrumbs. You can also add some chicken seasoning and garlic powder to the flour. Whisk the eggs with a fork and add some seasoning.

Now you're ready to start preparing your Spam. If you're using a breading, it's a good idea to place the Spam in the fridge for an hour beforehand to help it stiffen, which will make it easier to slice and bread. Cut the Spam into your desired shape, then load the slices into the flour, followed by the egg, and finally the breadcrumbs, making sure each slice gets a good coating.

If you're using a marinade, slice the Spam and then place the slices into the marinade for 10-15 minutes.

Making a marinade

If you want to make breaded Spam fries, you can also use the marinade as a coating before frying. Simply set up a production line with three bowls: one with flour, one with egg, and one with breadcrumbs. Season the flour and egg with salt and pepper, and mix the seasonings of your choice into the breadcrumbs. Then, load your marinated Spam slices into the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumbs, ensuring they get a good coating from each bowl.

Cooking the Spam fries

To make Spam fries, you'll need a can of Spam and a few other basic ingredients. You can use classic Spam or opt for a variation like Spam with 25% less sodium, Spam with pineapple, or Hickory-smoked Spam.

First, prepare your Spam by slicing it into fries. Cut the Spam into half-inch slices, then cut each slice into four equal sticks. You can also get creative and cut the Spam into different shapes and sizes, but fries are ideal for dipping.

If you want to add a breading to your Spam fries, you'll need flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Season your flour with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. You can also season the breadcrumbs for extra flavour. Set up a production line with separate bowls for flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.

Next, preheat your air fryer to between 360°F and 400°F. While the air fryer is heating up, coat your Spam fries in the flour, then dip them in the egg, and finally, toss them in the breadcrumbs to ensure an even coating.

Once your air fryer is preheated, place the Spam fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fries in batches.

Cook the Spam fries for 6 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the fries halfway through to ensure even cooking. The fries are done when they are golden brown and crispy.

Remove the fries from the air fryer and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce, such as spicy mayo, ketchup, or Srirancha ketchup.

Serving suggestions

Spam fries can be served as a snack or appetiser, or as part of a larger meal. They can be eaten on their own, perhaps with a dipping sauce such as spicy mayo, ketchup, or an egg yolk. They can also be served with potatoes, either mixed in with the potatoes or as a side.

Spam fries are also a great addition to a salad, or served with rice and nori to create katsu musubi, or with white rice and a fried egg. You could also add them to a sandwich roll with melted American cheese, potato-based fries, and mustard.

If you want to get creative, you could try adding Spam fries to a stroganoff, or use them in any dish where you would normally use corned beef.

Frequently asked questions