We’re excited to share our twist on a Filipino classic Tocino Spam. This dish merges the sweet savory flavors of tocino seasoning with the convenience of everyone’s favorite canned meat. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy mornings or whenever we crave a burst of flavor.
We’ll marinate Spam in a sweet garlic mixture then sear it until golden. We love grilling it too because a little caramelization lifts the taste to another level. Serve it with garlic rice or fresh veggies and let the delicious contrast of salty and sweet win everyone over. A drizzle of citrus juice or a spoonful of hot sauce can also perk up each bite.
Ingredients
- 1 can of Spam sliced into thin pieces
- ¼ cup of brown sugar for a sweet glaze
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce for savory depth
- 2 cloves of garlic minced for aromatic flavor
- 1 tablespoon of cooking oil to prevent sticking
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of pineapple juice for subtle tang
We combine brown sugar and soy sauce to create a sweet marinade. We stir in garlic for a robust kick. Next we submerge the Spam slices in this mixture so they absorb the tocino-style sweetness. The following table details recommended marinade durations:
| Marinating Time (minutes) | Flavor Intensity |
|---|---|
| 15 | Mild |
| 30 | Balanced |
| 60+ | Bold |
We coat each slice evenly to ensure a consistent caramelized finish. Then we keep the Spam covered until we are ready for searing.
Equipment
We need a few reliable items to prepare Tocino Spam efficiently. These tools help us handle marinating and searing with minimal effort.
Tools Needed
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cutting board | Holds the Spam slices steady for even cutting |
| Chef’s knife | Slices Spam into uniform pieces for consistent cooking |
| Mixing bowl | Holds the tocino marinade mixture and Spam slices |
| Nonstick skillet | Ensures even heat distribution for a golden sear |
| Tongs | Flips the Spam slices without damaging their shape |
Preparation
We now focus on creating our sweet and savory tocino glaze and preparing the Spam slices for marination. Follow these steps carefully to infuse every piece with bold flavor.
Mixing The Tocino Marinade
- In a mixing bowl combine brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- Add optional pineapple juice for a subtle tang.
- Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the marinade becomes smooth.
| Marinating Time (minutes) | Flavor Intensity |
|---|---|
| 15 | Mild |
| 30 | Balanced |
| 60+ | Bold |
Slicing And Marinating The Spam
- Slice the Spam into quarter-inch pieces on a stable cutting board.
- Submerge each piece in the marinade. Ensure complete coverage to lock in flavor.
- Marinate based on preferred time using the guide above. Keep the container covered to avoid moisture loss.
Cooking Directions
We start by heating our pan and preparing the marinated Spam for a quick sear. We create a sweet and savory coating by carefully managing our heat and using the reserved marinade.
Pan-Frying The Tocino Spam
We place a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. We add a tablespoon of oil. We allow the oil to heat for about one minute. We remove each Spam slice from the marinade. Then we arrange the slices in a single layer. We cook one side for about two minutes. We flip each slice and cook for another two minutes. We drizzle any remaining tocino marinade over the slices in the final minute to form a sticky glaze.
| Cooking Step | Description | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Searing First Side | Arrange marinated slices in the skillet | 2 |
| Flipping | Turn slices to cook the second side | 2 |
| Glazing | Spoon leftover marinade for a sweet, sticky coating | 1 |
Finishing Touches
We remove our Tocino Spam from the skillet. We let it rest briefly on a plate to lock in flavor. We garnish with sliced green onions or fresh citrus. We serve it hot with garlic rice or grilled vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
We love presenting Tocino Spam with a balance of hearty and fresh sides. We usually serve each slice hot so the sweet glaze stays chewy and fragrant. We like to garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and a mild onion bite. We also add crushed pepper flakes if we want extra heat. Below is a quick list of side pairings we enjoy:
- Garlic Fried Rice for a savory boost
- Grilled Pineapple for tangy contrast
- Crisp Lettuce Salad for a light refresh
- Scrambled Eggs to complete a breakfast platter
We find that a citrus splash brightens the dish and cuts the sweetness. A drizzle of hot sauce gives a smoky note that pairs well with the caramelized glaze. Our guests can also tailor the flavor with soy sauce or vinegar on the side. For an easy reference on pairing options see our mini guide:
| Side Dish | Flavor | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Fried Rice | Savory and bold | Enhances the sweet Tocino edge |
| Grilled Pineapple | Tangy and sweet | Balances caramelized glaze |
| Crisp Lettuce Salad | Cool and mild | Refreshes the palate |
| Scrambled Eggs | Soft and creamy | Completes a hearty meal |
We encourage serving Tocino Spam family-style. We stack the slices on a platter and let everyone spoon on extra glaze. We also add fresh lime wedges or calamansi halves for a zesty twist. Through intuitive pairing and simple garnishes, we unlock the vibrant spirit of this Filipino-inspired treat.
Conclusion
We love how easy it is to elevate a classic pantry staple and transform it into something special. This Tocino Spam recipe invites us to explore bold flavors without sacrificing convenience. We hope you enjoy every bite and share it with loved ones. Let’s keep celebrating the delicious spirit of Filipino-inspired cooking and spread the joy of this sweet savory treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tocino Spam?
Tocino Spam is a Filipino-inspired dish that combines the classic taste of Spam with a sweet and savory tocino-style marinade. It delivers a delightful flavor fusion thanks to brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic. Optional pineapple juice adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
How do I marinate Tocino Spam?
Slice Spam into quarter-inch pieces and submerge them in a marinade of brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. For added zest, include pineapple juice. Marinate for 15 minutes for a light flavor or up to 60 minutes for a bold taste.
What equipment is needed?
You’ll need a cutting board, chef’s knife, mixing bowl, nonstick skillet, and tongs. The cutting board and knife help you slice the Spam evenly. A mixing bowl is perfect for blending the marinade, while the skillet and tongs ensure a quick, precise sear.
How should I cook Tocino Spam?
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add a little oil, and sear the marinated Spam for about two minutes per side. Drizzle in any leftover marinade for a sticky glaze near the end. Rest briefly before serving to let flavors fully develop.
What are the best serving suggestions?
Pair Tocino Spam with garlic rice or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. Top with sliced green onions, pepper flakes, or fresh citrus juice for bright pops of flavor. You can also serve it family-style, allowing everyone to add extra glaze or a squeeze of lime.