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Korean ingredient guide

How to buy and use Spam

Spam is one of those ingredients that makes Korean cooking at home easier. This guide explains how to use it, where to find it, and which recipes work well with it.

Spam

At a glance

  • Buy: Asian grocery store, Korean online shop
  • Use for: Korean home cooking, Banchan and side dishes, Easy everyday meals
  • Tip: Check the ingredient list and flavor.

What is this ingredient?

In Korea, spam is mainly produced by CJ in partnership with the American company Hormel and is sold under the name "Spam." In Germany, I use "Tulip Frühstücksfleisch," which I find similar to spam, though slightly less salty in my opinion. It works well for all Korean spam recipes.

Where to buy it

  • Asian grocery store
  • Korean online shop
  • Large supermarkets with an Asian food section

How to use it

  • Korean home cooking
  • Banchan and side dishes
  • Easy everyday meals

What to check

  • Check the ingredient list and flavor.
  • Start with a small package if you are new to it.
  • Store it according to the package instructions after opening.

Can you substitute it?

If you cannot find it, use a simple alternative and adjust the flavor carefully. Fermented ingredients are often hard to replace exactly.

Recipes using this ingredient

Frequently asked questions

Where can I buy Spam?

You can usually find Spam in Asian grocery stores, Korean online shops, or larger supermarkets with a good Asian food section.

How do I use Spam?

Korean home cooking, Banchan and side dishes, Easy everyday meals

Can I substitute Spam?

If you cannot find it, use a simple alternative and adjust the flavor carefully. Fermented ingredients are often hard to replace exactly.

How should I store Spam?

Always follow the package instructions. Many Korean pastes and opened products keep best sealed in the fridge.