Spam is a canned meat product that was first introduced by the Hormel Foods Corporation in 1937. Spam is believed to be a contraction of the words “spiced ham,” which accurately describes the product.
Spam was originally marketed as a convenient and affordable source of protein, particularly for soldiers during World War 2, but it started as a way for Hormel Food Corporation to make pork shoulder profitable and as an easily prepared and inexpensive food. Its long shelf life and easy preparation made it a popular choice for military rations and for feeding troops stationed overseas.
After the war, Spam continued to be popular as a versatile and affordable ingredient in a variety of dishes It is also popular in places where the U.S. army has been stationed, such as Hawaii, South Korea, the Philippines (where I am from), and other countries in the Asian Pacific, where it has become a staple food item. Despite its enduring popularity, Spam has also been the subject of criticism and jokes due to its reputation as a cheap and processed food. However, it remains a beloved food item for many people around the world, particularly in areas where it has a strong cultural connection.
Over the years, Hormel has introduced various flavours and varieties of Spam, including low-sodium and low-fat versions, as well as Spam with bacon and jalapenos. Spam also gained a following among survivalists and preppers, who appreciate its long shelf life and portability.
Now, due to inflation, my family buys off-brand Spam to save money. I got to use this assignment as an excuse to have them buy the original brand, and though the tastes are very close, the original is just a better experience. Not only is it crispier, when fried, but it brings a sense of nostalgia that the off-brand spam could never replicate.
There are many ways to enjoy this versatile food.
- Fried: One of the most popular ways to prepare Spam is to slice it into thin pieces and fry it until crispy. Fried Spam can be eaten as a snack, added to sandwiches, or used as a topping for salads.
- Baked: Spam can be baked in the oven on its own or with other ingredients. For example, baking Spam, potatoes and vegetables can make a hearty casserole.
- Stir-fired: Spam with vegetables and rice or noodles can make a quick and easy meal.
- Soup and stews: This is popular in Korean cuisine. Ex. Budae jjigae (Korean army stew): spam, instant noodles, and other ingredients
- In sushi: spam musubi is a popular snack in Hawaii that consists of a slice of spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped in dried seaweed (nori).
My favourite is fried Spam for breakfast, alongside scrambled eggs and rice. I also enjoy spam as a sandwich, in between a pandesal (Filipino sweet bread roll) with some mayonnaise.
Bibliography: DeJesus, Erin. “A Brief History of Spam, an American Meat Icon.” Eater. Eater, July 9, 2014. https://www.eater.com/2014/7/9/6191681/a-brief-history-of-spam-an-american-meat-icon. Meyersohn, Nathaniel. “How Spam Became Cool Again | CNN Business.” CNN. Cable News Network, October 4, 2022. https://www.cnn.com/2022/10/01/business/spam-popularity-tiktok-sales-record/index.html#:~:text=AmericantroopsalsointroducedSpam,thePhilippinesandOkinawaJapan. “Spam.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. Accessed March 2, 2023. https://www.britannica.com/topic/SPAM-food. Waxman, Olivia B. “Spam Turns 80: History and Origins of Canned Meat.” Time. Time, July 5, 2017. https://time.com/4827451/spam-history-80th-anniversary/.
