Spam has lengthy had a cult following, and this playful dip reveals precisely why the long-lasting canned meat deserves a spot at your subsequent gathering. By combining pantry staples in simply quarter-hour of cooking time, this dip transforms the beloved ingredient right into a {smooth}, savory unfold that feels each nostalgic and surprisingly elegant.

The recipe begins by pan-frying a portion of diced Spam to create a golden, crisp garnish that delivers crunch and successful of salty richness. The remaining cubes are blended with cream cheese and a splash of low-sodium soy sauce to offer the dip’s creamy base and stability out the meat’s naturally salty edge. A contact of cornstarch slurry ensures the dip has the proper scoopable consistency — sturdy sufficient for crackers, however nonetheless mild and spreadable.

Furikake, the Japanese seasoning mix of seaweed and sesame seeds, provides a nutty, briny layer of taste when sprinkled excessive, whereas the crispy Spam garnish affords distinction to the silky base. Saltine crackers make the perfect pairing for dipping, however the largest shock is how effectively bread-and-butter pickles work alongside it. Their candy and tangy chew cuts by way of the richness, rounding out every mouthful.

Whether or not you’re a Spam devotee or are cooking with this ingredient for the primary time, this dip will shock you with its irresistible savory taste. It additionally comes collectively in simply quarter-hour, nearly totally in a meals processor, making it the proper answer in case you’re invited to a celebration on the final minute and have to convey one thing over that carries effectively and might please a crowd.

One of the simplest ways to crisp Spam

To crisp Spam, pat it dry with paper towels to take away floor moisture. Spam renders loads of fats, so that you solely have to warmth a small quantity of fats (oil or butter) in a skillet over medium-high. If cooking cubes, like we use right here, prepare them in a single layer, and work in batches to keep away from crowding. Sear undisturbed till deeply browned, then stir solely often so the items maintain contact with the pan till the underside and sides develop a crisp crust.

The best way to repair a dip that’s too thick or too free

In case your dip is simply too thick, you may skinny it with a small splash of a liquid already within the recipe. This may loosen the feel with out diluting taste; simply make sure you style and regulate seasoning earlier than serving. A runny dip often means it was overworked or extra moisture was launched from the substances. Begin by chilling it to agency up. If it’s nonetheless free, fold in additional of the bottom ingredient, reminiscent of cream cheese, mascarpone, or mayonnaise, so as to add physique. Additionally, make sure you add moist toppings and mix-ins simply earlier than serving in order that they don’t water the dip down.

Notes from the Meals & Wine Check Kitchen

• For those who’re sodium delicate, go for low-sodium Spam as an alternative of normal Spam.
• Since this dip has a cream cheese base, it can agency up when chilled. To melt, let it stand at room temperature for a minimum of half-hour earlier than serving.
• Be affected person together with your meals processor, and don’t be afraid to let it run for a few minutes for an ultra-smooth dip. 

This recipe was developed by Travis Milton; the textual content was written by Andee Gosnell.