SPAMakopita

YIELDS: 12 Servings

PREP TIME: 15 mins

COOK TIME: 40  mins 

TOTAL TIME: 55  mins 

A twist on the classic spanakopita…SPAM instead of spinach! We made three different versions: Traditional, Hawaiian, and Spicy Pizza. They all turned out SO GOOD. I urge you to experiment with different fillings and varieties of SPAM to come up with your own signature #SPAMakopita. The possibilities are endless!

SPAM is a beloved staple food in Hawaii, rooted in the islands’ history during World War II when fresh meat was scarce. Introduced by U.S. military personnel, SPAM quickly became a household favorite due to its long shelf life and versatility. Over the years, it has been incorporated into local cuisine, blending with the unique flavors of Hawaiian culture. SPAM musubi—a sushi-like dish where SPAM is placed on top of rice and wrapped in seaweed—is one of the most iconic recipes. Other popular dishes include SPAM fried rice, SPAM loco moco (served with rice, eggs, and gravy), and stir-fried SPAM with vegetables. The creative ways to use SPAM reflect Hawaii's fusion of cultures and flavors.

INGREDIENTS
Phyllo dough, thawed according to package instructions 
1 stick butter melted

Hawaiian Style 
Hawaiian Collectors Edition Spam 
Diced pineapple 
Mango salsa 
Diced jalapeño 

Spicy Pizza Style 
Hot & Spicy Spam 
Sriracha 
Shredded mozzarella 
Fresh basil, roughly chopped

Traditional Style 
Classic Spam 
1 cup chopped spinach 
1 cup mushrooms 
1 cup chopped leeks 
1 cup chopped onion 
1 shot tequila 
Pinch of Tutu’s Pantry Smoked Salt and Seasoning
Feta cheese 

Tools
Cutting board 
Knife 
Pastry brush 
Mixing bowl 
Baking sheet 
Skillet 

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°. 
  2. Remove Spam from the can, cut into triangles, and place onto a baking sheet. Bake the Spam triangles for 20 mins, or until golden brown. Set aside. 
  3. If preparing the Traditional Style, sauté all ingredients except for the feta cheese in a large skillet until softened. Set aside and allow to cool. 
  4. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough and brush with butter. Add another layer of dough and brush with butter. 
  5. Fold the phyllo dough in half, then in quarters so you have a strip of phyllo dough that also fits the Spam triangle. 
  6. Add the Spam triangle and a spoonful of filling near the end of the strip of phyllo then begin folding the strip into a triangle. 
  7. Brush with butter and place on a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. 
  8. Bake for 20 minutes, until the phyllo is golden brown. 
  9. Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and enjoy!

Check Out Jim's Art @ Enchantress & Freebourne Gallery at the Wailea Shops on Maui, HI.