Savory Pan-Fried Spam and Potato Stir-Fry
The Best Spam and Potato Stir-Fry Recipe: A Delicious Home-Style Side Dish
Here’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying side dish that’s a favorite in many Korean households: Spam and Potato Stir-Fry. This dish perfectly balances the savory richness of Spam with the tender, slightly crisp texture of potatoes. It’s surprisingly easy to make and makes a fantastic addition to any meal, whether it’s everyday rice accompaniment or packed into a lunchbox. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients- 3 medium potatoes
- 1 can (200g) Spam
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- Cooking oil, as needed
- 1/2 Tbsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, about 0.5 cm thick, then cut them into matchstick-like strips, approximately 0.3 cm thick. Place the cut potatoes in a bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for about 5 minutes to remove excess starch. This step is key to preventing them from sticking together and ensuring a pleasant crispness.
Step 2
Next, cut the Spam into similar sized strips as the potatoes, about the same length and thickness. This ensures even cooking and a harmonious bite. Try not to cut them too thin, as they might break apart during cooking.
Step 3
Drain the potatoes from the soaking water and rinse them gently under running water. Thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with paper towels. Removing as much moisture as possible will help prevent oil splattering and result in a beautifully stir-fried texture.
Step 4
Heat about 1 Tbsp of cooking oil and the minced garlic in a wok or large pan over medium-low heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then increase the heat to high and add the dried potato strips. Stir-fry the potatoes, gently tossing them with a spatula to prevent sticking.
Step 5
Once the potato strips begin to turn translucent and lightly tender, add the salt (1/2 Tbsp). Continue to stir-fry for another minute, ensuring the salt is evenly distributed. Taste and add more salt if needed, according to your preference.
Step 6
Add the pre-cut Spam to the pan with the potatoes. Continue to stir-fry until the potatoes are cooked through but still retain a slight bite. It’s important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook slightly from the residual heat after turning off the stove. A gentle crispness is ideal.
Step 7
Turn off the heat. Drizzle in about 0.5 Tbsp of sesame oil (adjust to your liking), a pinch of black pepper (optional), and sprinkle with 1 Tbsp of sesame seeds. Gently toss everything together to combine. This final step adds a wonderful aroma and nutty flavor.
Step 8
And there you have it – a delicious and satisfying Spam and Potato Stir-Fry! This dish is perfect served over a warm bowl of rice, making for a comforting and flavorful meal. It’s also a fantastic option for packed lunches or even as a side dish for special occasions.
