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Air Fryer Spam Musubi Bites - Crispy, Savory, and Easy

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 can Spam (classic or Lite), cut into 18–24 small rectangles
  • 3 cups cooked short-grain sushi rice (warm, not hot)
  • 2–3 sheets nori, cut into 1 x 6-inch strips
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or an extra 1 tablespoon soy sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey)
  • 1 tablespoon mirin (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • Neutral oil spray for the air fryer basket
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the rice: Prepare short-grain rice according to package instructions. Keep it warm and fluffy. If it’s too hot, let it cool slightly so it’s easy to handle.
  • Make the glaze: In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, mirin, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves.
  • Slice the Spam: Cut the block into small rectangles about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for 18–24 pieces so they’re bite-size.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Air-fry the Spam: Arrange Spam pieces in a single layer. Air fry for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly browned at the edges.
  • Glaze and crisp: Brush the tops with the glaze, flip, brush the other side, and air fry 2 more minutes. They should be caramelized and glossy without burning.
  • Season the rice: If you like, sprinkle a pinch of salt or furikake over the warm rice and gently fold in.
  • Form the bites: With damp hands, scoop about 1 heaping tablespoon of rice and press it into a compact oval or rectangle. Top with a glazed Spam piece.
  • Wrap with nori: Place a strip of nori under the rice-and-Spam stack and wrap it around, sealing the end with a dab of water. Press gently to secure.
  • Optional second fry: For extra crisp, return the wrapped bites to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes at 360°F (182°C). Keep a close eye so the nori doesn’t burn.
  • Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions if using. Serve warm with extra glaze on the side.