Looking for a delicious, plant-based alternative to the classic canned meat that’s both nostalgic and surprisingly easy to make? This vegan spam recipe is your new go-to!
Crafted from simple, wholesome ingredients, it delivers the perfect combination of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors that mimic the beloved original. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just curious about plant-based eating, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds.
With just a few pantry staples and a bit of time, you’ll create a versatile vegan protein that’s perfect for sandwiches, breakfast scrambles, or even fried rice. Plus, this recipe is customizable and freezer-friendly, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
Ready to dive into making your own vegan spam? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan spam recipe stands out because it’s:
- Simple and affordable: Uses easy-to-find ingredients like chickpeas, vital wheat gluten, and seasonings.
- Highly versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, stir-fries, and more.
- Protein-packed: Thanks to vital wheat gluten and chickpeas, it provides a hearty protein boost.
- Customizable: You can adjust the smokiness, saltiness, or sweetness to your taste.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a batch and store it for quick meals all week.
Plus, it’s a fun way to experiment with plant-based cooking and impress friends and family with your culinary creativity!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Chickpeas (cooked or canned) | 1 cup (about 165g) | Drained and rinsed if canned |
Vital wheat gluten | 1 cup (120g) | Forms the chewy texture |
Nutritional yeast | 3 tbsp | Adds umami flavor |
Vegetable broth | 1 cup (240ml) | For moisture and flavor |
Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | For color and slight sweetness |
Soy sauce or tamari | 2 tbsp | For saltiness and depth |
Liquid smoke | 1 tsp | Essential for smoky flavor |
Maple syrup | 1 tbsp | Balances salt and smoke |
Garlic powder | 1 tsp | For subtle savory notes |
Onion powder | 1 tsp | Enhances overall flavor |
Smoked paprika | 1 tsp | Boosts smoky aroma |
Black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground recommended |
Salt | ½ tsp (or to taste) | Adjust as needed |
Olive oil or avocado oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
Equipment
- Mixing bowl – to combine ingredients
- Food processor or blender – for processing chickpeas
- Loaf pan or heatproof mold – to shape the vegan spam
- Steamer or large pot with steaming rack – for cooking
- Skillet or frying pan – for browning slices
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper – to line loaf pan
Instructions
- Prepare the chickpeas: Drain and rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly. If using freshly cooked chickpeas, make sure they are soft but not mushy.
- Process chickpeas: In a food processor or blender, pulse the chickpeas until finely ground but not pureed. A slightly coarse texture helps mimic meatiness.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, liquid smoke, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Make the dough: Add the ground chickpeas to the dry ingredients and mix well. Slowly pour in the wet mixture while stirring to form a dough.
- Knead the dough: Knead the mixture in the bowl or on a clean surface for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes elastic and slightly sticky. This step is crucial to develop the chewy texture.
- Shape the loaf: Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap or parchment paper. Press the dough firmly into the pan, smoothing the top.
- Steam the loaf: Place the loaf pan in a steamer or a pot with a steaming rack. Steam for 45 minutes to 1 hour, checking water level occasionally to avoid drying out.
- Cool and slice: Remove the loaf from the steamer and let it cool completely before slicing. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.
- Brown the slices: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and slightly crispy. This step enhances flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra smoky kick, add a little more liquid smoke or smoked paprika. If you prefer a spicier vegan spam, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes.”
- Gluten-free option: Substitute vital wheat gluten with a combination of chickpea flour and xanthan gum, but note texture will be different.
- Make it savory-sweet: Add a splash of maple syrup or agave to the dough for a slightly sweet undertone.
- Storage: Store cooled vegan spam wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
- Use as a base: Try variations by mixing in diced bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs like thyme and rosemary before steaming.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 slice, ~70g) |
---|---|
Calories | 110 |
Protein | 12g |
Fat | 3g |
Carbohydrates | 8g |
Fiber | 3g |
Sodium | 450mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan spam is incredibly versatile! Here are some tasty ideas you can try:
- Classic sandwich: Layer fried vegan spam slices with lettuce, tomato, vegan mayo, and mustard on toasted bread.
- Breakfast treat: Dice and add to tofu scramble or vegan fried rice for a smoky protein punch.
- Wrap it up: Use with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce in a vegan flour tortilla for a quick lunch.
- Asian-inspired stir-fry: Combine with vegetables and your favorite stir-fry sauce for a hearty dinner.
- Vegan Cuban sandwich: Pair with pickles, mustard, and vegan cheese on crusty bread. For more Cuban-inspired ideas, check out our Vegan Cuban Recipes.
Conclusion
Making your own vegan spam is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food without animal products. This recipe combines accessible ingredients and straightforward steps to create a flavorful, protein-rich loaf that can be sliced, fried, and enjoyed in countless ways.
Whether you’re looking to add variety to your plant-based meals or simply want to try something new, this vegan spam is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Don’t forget to experiment with the seasonings and serving ideas to tailor it to your taste buds. And if you’re interested in other easy and tasty vegan recipes, be sure to explore our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or try the delightful Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Spam Recipe
Description: A savory and flavorful vegan alternative to traditional spam made from tofu and spices. Perfect for sandwiches, stir-fries, or breakfast dishes.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and drained
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp liquid smoke
- 2 tbsp chickpea flour
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Crumble tofu into a bowl until it resembles ground meat.
- Add soy sauce, maple syrup, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke. Mix well.
- Stir in chickpea flour to bind the mixture.
- Press mixture into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
- Brush top with olive oil.
- Bake for 20 minutes until firm and slightly browned.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 15g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 10g
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