Spam Katsu Sandwich
Crispy, golden-fried panko-crusted Spam tucked into soft white bread with tangy tonkatsu sauce and crisp cabbage. A delicious Hawaiian-inspired snack or lunch that's ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Spam and Breading Station
- b.Open the can of Spam and carefully slide it out. Slice it lengthwise into 4 equal cutlets, each about 1/2-inch thick.
- c.Thoroughly pat each Spam slice dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a crispy coating.
- d.Set up a 3-stage breading station. In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
- e.In a second shallow dish, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
- f.In a third shallow dish, spread out the panko breadcrumbs.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Coat the Spam Cutlets
- b.Working with one Spam slice at a time, first dredge it in the seasoned flour, ensuring it's lightly coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
- c.Next, dip the floured slice into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
- d.Finally, press the slice firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, turning to coat completely. Gently press the panko onto the surface to help it adhere.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Shallow-Fry the Spam Katsu
- b.Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/4-inch. Heat over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 350°F (175°C).
- c.To test if the oil is ready, drop a single panko crumb into it; it should sizzle vigorously immediately.
- d.Carefully place the breaded Spam cutlets into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- e.Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until the crust is a deep golden brown and exceptionally crispy.
- f.Using tongs, transfer the fried katsu to a wire rack to drain. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble the Sandwiches
- b.Lay out the 8 slices of bread. Spread a thin, even layer of Japanese mayonnaise on one side of each slice.
- c.On 4 of the bread slices (mayo-side up), place a warm Spam katsu cutlet.
- d.Drizzle a generous amount of tonkatsu sauce over each piece of katsu.
- e.Top with a heaping pile of finely shredded cabbage.
- f.Place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top, mayo-side down.
- g.Gently press down on the sandwich to compact it slightly. For a traditional katsu sando look, you can trim the crusts off with a sharp serrated knife.
- h.Slice the sandwiches in half (diagonally or vertically) and serve immediately while the katsu is still warm and crispy.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest crust, always use panko breadcrumbs. Their larger, airier flakes create a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- 2Patting the Spam slices completely dry is the most important step for ensuring the breading sticks perfectly.
- 3Use Japanese milk bread (shokupan) if you can find it. Its soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet character provides the perfect contrast to the savory, crispy katsu.
- 4Don't skip draining the katsu on a wire rack. Placing it directly on paper towels can trap steam and make the bottom crust lose its crispiness.
- 5To get extra-fine shredded cabbage like in Japanese restaurants, use a mandoline slicer with a fine julienne blade.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Katsu Sando
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or shichimi togarashi to the flour mixture. You can also mix sriracha into the Japanese mayonnaise for a spicy aioli.
Cheesy Spam KatsuCheesy Spam Katsu
Place a slice of American or provolone cheese on top of the hot Spam katsu right after frying, allowing it to melt slightly before assembling the sandwich.
Different SaucesDifferent Sauces
Swap the tonkatsu sauce for bulldog sauce, okonomiyaki sauce, or even a sweet and savory BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
Add PicklesAdd Pickles
Add a layer of thinly sliced pickles (like Japanese tsukemono or classic dill pickles) for a tangy crunch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
Spam and egg provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Provides Quick Energy
The carbohydrates from the bread and breading provide a quick source of energy, making this a satisfying and filling meal.
Contains Vitamin C
The fresh cabbage offers a bit of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
Frequently asked questions
Spam Katsu Sandwich is an indulgent comfort food and is high in sodium and fat, primarily due to the Spam and the frying process. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.