Spam Hash and Grits
I always like to buy a can of Spam and keep it in my pantry for emergencies. It has saved me on multiple occasions when I don’t want to go to the grocery store or when I don’t know what to cook. Sure you can just slice it, fry it and serve it with eggs for breakfast, but Spam is actually quite versatile. You’d be surprised by how much you can actually cook with it. This Spam Hash and Grits is the perfect recipe to keep on hand, especially during this difficult time, because it’s easy and because it’s completely versatile. Use whatever vegetables or produce you have on hand. A hash is just a mixture of vegetables and protein that you can switch up a thousand different ways. There are no set rules. Use this more as a guideline instead of a set of rules. This Spam Musubi is also a great snack to make with Spam, just in case you’re looking for some more inspiration and these Spam Hash and Grits aren’t enough.
Spam Hash and Grits
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups water
- Kosher salt and coarse black pepper
- 1 cup coarse cornmeal or polenta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 12- ounce can low-sodium Spam diced
- 1 medium sweet potato peeled and diced
- 1 small red onion diced
- 2 cups loosely packed shredded kale
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar Monterey Jack or Mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 large fried eggs
- 2 scallions thinly sliced
- Hot sauce for serving
Instructions
- Place the milk, water and 1 teaspoon salt in a large saucepan and bring to a simmer. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal until evenly combined. Lower the flame and cook, stirring often, until the grits are thick and softened, about 18 to 20 minutes.
- In the meantime, set a large skillet over moderate heat with 2 tablespoons oil. Once hot, add the diced Spam and cook until crispy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the Spam to a platter or bowl and set aside. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of oil into the skillet and add the sweet potato. Cook for about 5 minutes to slightly brown and begin to soften. Stir in the red onion and cook for another minute or so to soften the onion. Add the shredded kale, a handful at a time, and cook until wilted each addition has wilted somewhat. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper and crushed red pepper. Cook for a minute or two longer until the kale is bright green. You don’t want to overcook the kale or else it’ll turn brown. Return the Spam to the skillet and turn off the heat.
- Add the cheese and butter to the grits and stir until melted through. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning accordingly, adding more salt and pepper as needed.
- To serve portion out the grits into shallow bowls and spoon over the Spam hash mixture. Top each bowl with a fried egg and sliced scallions. Serve with hot sauce and enjoy!
