BBQ Bill’s Ultimate Spam Bao Buns (Air Fryer Version)
About This Recipe:
This recipe takes classic bao buns and loads them with crispy air-fried Spam tossed in a smoky BBQ glaze. The bao buns are lightly toasted in the air fryer for the perfect texture: fluffy on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside. Ready in 30–35 minutes, these buns pack an unexpected, addictive flavor punch!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Assembly Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Spam:
1 can Spam (Classic or Lite), cut into ½-inch thick slices or cubes
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey or sugar-free maple syrup
1½ tbsp BBQ sauce (sweet, smoky, or spicy)
1 tsp rice vinegar
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra BBQ kick)
For the Bao Buns:
8–10 frozen or pre-steamed bao buns (available at Asian markets or homemade)
1–2 tsp sesame oil (optional, for brushing)
For Toppings (Optional but recommended):
Pickled cucumbers or red onions
Shredded carrots
Fresh cilantro
Sriracha mayo or spicy mayo drizzle
Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
Prepare the Bao Buns
If using frozen bao buns, steam them according to package directions (usually 10–12 minutes) until soft and fluffy.
Let cool slightly while you prepare the Spam.
Optional: Brush each bun lightly with sesame oil for flavor and to help it crisp in the air fryer later.
Air Fry the Spam
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the Spam pieces with soy sauce, honey, BBQ sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well coated.
Place Spam pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until caramelized and crisp at the edges.
Lightly Crisp the Bao Buns (Optional)
After steaming, you can air fry the bao buns for a crisp exterior.
Place in air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes, just until lightly golden. Keep an eye on them — you want them warm and slightly crisp, not dry.
Assemble the Buns
Open each bao bun and stuff with a few pieces of BBQ Spam.
Add toppings: pickled cucumber, carrot, cilantro, sriracha mayo, or sesame seeds as desired.
Serve immediately while hot and melty!
Storage & Reheating:
Store components separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat Spam in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
Bao buns can be re-steamed or microwaved for 20–30 seconds with a damp towel.
Tips:
Want a sweet-spicy edge? Add a splash of pineapple juice or gochujang to the BBQ glaze.
Use mini slider bao buns for bite-size party versions.
Add a slice of melted cheese under the Spam for a modern BBQ twist!