Whether you grew up with it, avoided it, or are just plain curious — SPAM is one of the world’s most enduring pantry legends. Often misunderstood, SPAM is a brand of canned cooked pork introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods. It was designed to be an affordable, long-lasting protein source during wartime and quickly earned global fanfare (and confusion).
So, what’s in SPAM? The original formula includes:
- Pork (with ham)
- Salt
- Water
- Potato starch (as a binder)
- Sugar
- Sodium nitrite (as a preservative)
That’s it — no mystery ingredients, just a compact, shelf-stable blend of porky goodness.
This savory, golden breakfast toast takes the humble can and elevates it into a delicious, crispy, protein-packed open-face breakfast. It’s salty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to love.
INGREDEINTS:
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough or brioche work best)
- 1 can of SPAM (classic or low-sodium), sliced thin
- 4 eggs
- 1 tablespoon oil or butter
- 1 avocado, mashed (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chili flakes or hot sauce (for heat)
- Fresh parsley, green onions, or microgreens (for garnish)
INSTURCTIONS:
- Slice the SPAM: Open the can and carefully slide the SPAM out. Cut into ¼-inch slices. You’ll get about 8–10 slices per can — enough for 4 toasts.
- Crisp It Up: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the slices in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and crispy on the outside. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Toast the Bread: In the same skillet, toast your bread slices with a little butter or oil for extra flavor and crunch. Toast each side until golden.
- Cook the Eggs: Fry the eggs to your liking — sunny-side up, over easy, or even poached. Just make sure the yolks stay runny for extra richness.
- Assemble: Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each piece of toast (optional but luxurious). Top with crispy SPAM, then gently lay an egg on top.
- Season and Garnish: Add a pinch of salt, a crack of black pepper, and some chili flakes if desired. Finish with chopped parsley or green onions for freshness.
Why It Works:
- Flavor: SPAM brings bold, salty richness while the egg yolk adds lusciousness.
- Texture: Crisped SPAM, crunchy toast, creamy egg — it’s a symphony.
- Convenience: One pan, pantry staples, and done in 15 minutes.
- Cultural Touchstone: SPAM is beloved in Hawaii (Spam musubi), Korea (Budae Jjigae), and the Philippines (with garlic rice and eggs). This toast? A global nod in one bite.