Have you ever shredded spam? This method transforms it into crispy perfection. Paired with a foolproof gochujang sauce, it's a game-changer. 

The Magic of Grated Spam

Spam often isn’t shown how versatile it can be, but it's an ingredient that can be elevated with the right techniques and flavors. Grating and air frying spam creates a texture that's light, crispy, and irresistible. This method is not only quick and easy but also brings out the best in spam, making it the perfect base for a variety of dishes.

The key to achieving crispy spam lies in the grating process. By breaking it down into smaller pieces, you increase the surface area, allowing it to crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. The result is a deliciously crunchy bite that's perfect for absorbing the bold flavors of our gochujang sauce.

Ingredients

To create this dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 can of spam 
• 1 1/2 tbsp gochujang paste
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 knob of ginger, grated
• 1 garlic clove, grated
• 1 tbsp water
• 1-2 tsp Zindrew garlic chili oil (OG or X Batch)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavor profile of the dish. The gochujang paste provides a deep, spicy kick, while the sesame oil adds a nutty aroma. Soy sauce contributes a rich, savory depth, balanced by the sweetness of the caster sugar. Fresh ginger and garlic add a fragrant zing, and Zindrew garlic chili oil takes the sauce to new heights with its robust, garlicky heat.

Method

Step 1: Grate and Air-Fry the Spam

1. Grate the spam using a coarse grater. This might seem unconventional, but it’s the secret to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. This ensures the spam cooks evenly and reaches the desired crispiness.
3. Place the grated spam in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.

The air frying process is quick and efficient, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you need a fast meal that doesn't compromise on taste. As the spam cooks, the edges become wonderfully crispy while the inside remains tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Prepare the Gochujang Sauce

While the spam is air frying, it's time to make the star of the dish – the gochujang sauce.

1. In a saucepan, add:

   • 1 1/2 tbsp gochujang paste
   • 1 tbsp sesame oil
   • 2 tbsp dark soy sauce
   • 2 tbsp caster sugar
   • 1 knob of grated ginger
   • 1 grated garlic clove
   • 1 tbsp water
   • 1-2 tsp Zindrew garlic chili oil (We used OG Batch, but use X Batch to turn up the heat!)

2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously. This step is crucial for flavor combination and achieving the right consistency.

3. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble. Once done, remove it from the heat.

The sauce should be smooth, glossy, and slightly thickened. It should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny. This ensures that it clings to the crispy spam, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Coat the crispy spam in the prepared gochujang chili crisp sauce. Make sure each piece is well-coated, allowing the sauce to seep into all the nooks and crannies.
2. Serve on a bed of rice. Optionally, add sliced cucumber on the side and garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch.

The rice serves as a neutral base that complements the bold flavors of the dish. The sliced cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the spam and sauce. Garnishing with sesame seeds not only adds a visual appeal but also a subtle nuttiness that enhances the overall flavor.

Pro Tip: Elevate Your Dish with Zindrew Garlic Chili Oil

Zindrew garlic chili oil is the secret ingredient that elevates this dish and makes it very special. The rich, garlicky flavor of the OG Batch or the intense heat of the X Batch perfectly complements the gochujang sauce, making every bite delicious.

Adding just a teaspoon or two of Zindrew garlic chili oil to the sauce brings a depth and complexity that's hard to achieve with other ingredients. Its balanced heat and savory notes enhance the natural flavors of the spam and the other components of the sauce, creatingblend that's satisfying and memorable.

Conclusion

Grated air-fried spam with gochujang sauce is a simple and innovative dish that will become a favorite. The combination of crispy spam and the rich, spicy sauce creates a unique flavor experience. This recipe is perfect for those who love bold, Asian-inspired flavors and want to try something new with a familiar ingredient.

By incorporating Zindrew garlic chili oil, you add an extra layer of flavor that makes this dish truly special. Whether you prefer the OG Batch with its balanced heat and garlic punch or the X Batch for an extra kick, Zindrew crunchy garlic chili oil is the perfect addition to this recipe.

Try this recipe today, and don't forget to add Zindrew garlic chili oil for that extra special touch! Enjoy your meal and STAY SPICY!

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