Ham Musubis: A Healthier Lunch Option

I was first introduced to authentic Spam musubis by a Hawaiian classmate during my college years.  They have recently become a welcome change of pace for lunches in our household (since I like to eat things other than sandwiches).  Not only do ham musubis taste better than a peanut butter sandwich, they are also dairy and gluten free.

I haven't eaten actual Spam for a very long time.  I still remember exactly how it tastes, and I don't miss it at all.   Thankfully uncured ham works as a healthier stand-in for canned ham.  If you are curious and want to see a more authentic Hawaiian Spam musubi tutorial, head over to Serious Eats.

My simplified version has just three basic ingredients--no tinned meat or MSG required.

Ingredients for Ham Musubis

• cooked sushi rice, warm
• nori sheets (I used pre-cut snack-sized sheets--about 5 cm by 8 cm)
• uncured ham, sliced and cut to fit nori
• avocado slices, optional
• sea salt to taste, optional (mix into the rice)

Directions

In a small skillet, lightly fry the ham on both sides.  To assemble the musubis, place one sheet of nori seaweed on a plate, and layer cooked rice, then ham (and avocado, if using), then another layer of cooked rice.  Top with another sheet of nori.  Press layers together and eat musubis warm or at room temperature.

Note: The rice will dry out quickly, so keep the musubis tightly wrapped or in a sealed container until ready to serve.

I'm sharing this recipe at Pennywise Platter, Your Green Resource, 
Creative Bloggers' Party and Hop 
and This Week's Cravings.