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Air Fryer Spam Musubi

A quick and satisfying snack that combines warm, salty Spam with seasoned rice, all wrapped in nori. A taste of Hawaii that’s easy to prepare and customize.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Hawaiian
Servings 4 pieces
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Rice

  • 2 cups cooked short grain rice Warm is easiest to shape
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Optional, for seasoning
  • 1 pinch salt Optional, for seasoning

For the Spam

  • 1 can Spam, sliced Cut into 8 to 10 even pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce For glazing (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar For glazing (optional but suggested)

For Assembly

  • 4 sheets nori, cut into strips Essential for wrapping
  • 1 musubi mold musubi mold or Spam can lined with plastic wrap For shaping the rice

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the rice in a rice cooker or on the stove. Let it sit covered for a few minutes to become sticky.
  • Slice the Spam evenly into 8 to 10 pieces.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

Cooking the Spam

  • Place the Spam slices in a single layer in the air fryer, cooking for about 6 minutes. Flip and continue cooking for an additional 4 to 6 minutes until browned and crispy.
  • If desired, combine 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Brush or dip each Spam slice in the mixture and return to the air fryer for 1 more minute for a sticky glaze.

Assembling the Musubi

  • Using a musubi mold or lined Spam can, pack the cooked rice into the mold to form a block.
  • Place a strip of nori on a clean surface, add the rice block on top, top with a slice of Spam, and wrap the nori snugly around the rice and Spam.
  • If the nori doesn’t stick, dab a little water on the edge to help it adhere.

Notes

Make sure to use warm rice for easier packing and wet your hands to prevent the rice from sticking. Store leftovers in plastic wrap in the fridge, but note that nori will soften over time.
Keyword air fryer recipe, Comfort Food, meal prep, Quick Snack, Spam Musubi