Spam and Potato Simmer: A Savory-Sweet Korean Side Dish
Korean Home Cooking # Spam Recipe # Potato Dish
We’ve created a delicious side dish perfect for rice with fluffy potatoes and melt-in-your-mouth Spam. Enjoy this simple yet incredibly satisfying meal!
Main Ingredients- 3 medium potatoes
- 1/2 can Spam (approx. 200g)
- 1 medium onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 stalk green onion
Seasoning- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp corn syrup (or oligodang)
- 1/2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (or rice wine)
- Sesame seeds, to taste
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp corn syrup (or oligodang)
- 1/2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (or rice wine)
- Sesame seeds, to taste
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Peel the potatoes and cut them into large, bite-sized pieces, about 3-4 cm cubes. Dice the Spam into similar-sized cubes. Chop the onion coarsely or cut it into chunks. Slice the garlic thinly (minced garlic can also be used). Finely chop the green onion.
Step 2
Place the cut potatoes in a pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, simmer the potatoes for 2-3 minutes. This parboiling step helps them cook evenly and absorb the sauce better without falling apart.
Step 3
Drain the parboiled potatoes using a colander and let them cool slightly. Be careful as they will be hot.
Step 4
In a separate pan or pot, add the diced Spam, chopped onion, and sliced garlic. (Tip: Spam can release a lot of fat. You can lightly pat it dry with a paper towel, or blanch it in hot water for a minute to reduce excess oil before using.)
Step 5
Add the Spam, onion, and garlic to the pan. Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 3 tablespoons of corn syrup. Stir everything together and sauté over high heat for 1-2 minutes until the ingredients are well coated with the sauce. Then, add about 130ml (half a standard Korean paper cup) of water. Reduce the heat to medium and add the parboiled potatoes to the pan. Let the mixture simmer.
Step 6
While simmering over medium heat, gently stir the ingredients with a spatula or spoon occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This process allows the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients beautifully. Taste the mixture and if you prefer it sweeter or saltier, you can add a little more soy sauce or corn syrup to achieve your desired ‘sweet and savory’ balance.
Step 7
Once the sauce has reduced and thickened slightly, add the finely chopped green onion and 1/2 tablespoon of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). Stir well to incorporate the chili flakes, which will add a pleasant hint of spice.
Step 8
When the ingredients are well combined and coated with the sauce, turn off the heat. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of plum extract for added flavor and aroma. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish. You can also add some of the reserved chopped green onion on top. Your delicious Spam and Potato Simmer is ready to be enjoyed!
