How To Get Spam Out Of Can [Quickly & Easily]

Spam is a quick and easy food solution for many households. However, getting the hunk of meat out of the can be challenging. Let's take a look at a quick and easy solution for getting Spam out of the can.

Follow these steps to get Spam out of its can:

Completely open the top lid.
Turn the can upside down.
Squeeze both sides of the can.
Give it a couple of taps on the bottom.
The meat should slide right out of the can.

If you eat Spam regularly, knowing a quick way to get it out of the can is a time saver. This article will take a closer look at methods for getting Spam out of its can. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about Spam, so read on!

How Do You Pull Spam Out Of The Can?

Like other canned meats, Spam eliminates the need to cook a protein for your recipe. Simply take the Spam out of the can and add it to your meal. The problem is that Spam isn't the easiest to take get of the can.

Spam has a firmer texture, so it tends to stick to the sides when it's in the can. This can be frustrating when you are trying to make a quick snack or meal.

While you can take a fork and try to pull it out that way, you won't be able to pull it out in one piece. Instead, you will be left with chunks of Spam which can ruin your recipe.

Let's take a closer look at the quickest and easiest way to take Spam out of its can.

Open The Lid

On the top of the can, there will be a tab that you pull to open the lid. Pull the tab until the lid is completely open. If you plan on using an entire piece of Spam, then you can remove the lid.

Turn The Can Upside Down

Next, grab something to put the Spam on; this can be a cutting board, plate, or piece of foil. Turn the can upside down to let gravity assist you.

Squeeze Both Sides Of The Can

Now while squeezing both sides of the can, give it a little shake to loosen the meat. You can also squeeze both sides with one hand and use your other hand to tap the end of the can.

The meat should start to slide out of the can. If it only came out part way, you can gently grab it with your fingers to help it out.

What Are Other Ways To Get Spam Out Of The Can?

There are other methods you can try to get Spam out of the can. If you are having a hard time getting it out with your hands, there are kitchen tools that can help.

For instance, a popular method is to use a butter knife to work around the edges of the can. This will help release the Spam from the sides of the can. From there, you can squeeze the can and shake it out.

Another trick is to pour warm water over the can of Spam. Place the unopened can of Spam in a bowl and pour warm water over it. This will help loosen the meat and make it easier to slide out.

Lastly, some recommend punching a hole in the bottom of the can. Part of the reason Spam is suctioned to the can is because of built-up air pressure. Putting a hole in the bottom of the can will release the pressure and allow the meat to slide out.

Can You Microwave Spam Out Of Its Can?

It is not a good idea to put a can of Spam in the microwave, no matter if the lid is open or not. Metal and microwaves are a recipe for disaster and could lead to injury.

When you put metal into a microwave, it can cause a spark and can ruin your microwave. In the worse case, your microwave could explode. This not only could hurt you or anyone nearby but could also cause a house fire.

You should also avoid putting an unopened can of Spam in the oven. As the temperature rises inside the can, pressure will build, and it could potentially explode.

Your best bet is to stick to one of the methods mentioned above. These are the safest and quickest ways to get Spam out of the can.

Do You Have To Use The Whole Can Of Spam?

Don't worry; you don't need to eat all your Spam before being excused from the table! Spam will last around a week in the refrigerator before it goes bad, so feel free to store your leftovers.

Of course, you want to ensure that the Spam is stored in an airtight container. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold, foul smell, or discoloration, it's best to toss it in the garbage.

You can also opt for freezing the leftover Spam. Same with storing in the fridge, be sure to put it in an airtight freezer bag or container. When properly stored, frozen Spam can last several months.

If you are unsure what to do with your leftover Spam, here are some quick ideas.

Cheese And Crackers

Like ham or salami, sliced ham goes well with cheese and crackers. Depending on what flavor of Spam you have, it can be kind of salty, so choose crackers that are mild in flavor.

Salads

If you don't have a lot of Spam left but enough that it's worth keeping, then throw it in a salad. You can dice the meat up and make a chef salad. You can also put it into a pasta salad that has a creamy dressing.

Sandwiches

You don't need a lot of Spam to make a quick sandwich. Simply take a few slices of Spam, two pieces of bread, and your favorite toppings, and you have a quick snack or meal.

You can make a Spam grilled cheese or melt if you want a hot sandwich. Who knows, you might have found your new favorite sandwich.

Lastly, why not make a breakfast sandwich with your leftover spam? Toast the bread of your choice, add an egg, and top it with a grilled piece of Spam, and you have a quick and easy breakfast sandwich.

Rice Bowl

It's common to have grilled Spam with white rice and eggs. However, you can make any kind of rice bowl with Spam. For example, you can use brown or Spanish rice and make a burrito bowl.

You can also make a poke bowl with Spam. Typically a poke bowl is with cubes of raw fish, but you can use Spam with the same ingredients.

How Long Does An Unopened Can Of Spam Last?

Since Spam is made with preservatives, it will last longer than meat purchased from a deli. When you look at a can of Spam, you will see a "best by" date instead of an expiration date.

Typically, the best-by date is marked three years from the manufactured date. While it can still be fit to eat after the best-by date, it may not taste as good. The best-by date is set to indicate when the product is in its peak flavor and texture.

If you have stored Spam for years, check the condition of the can before opening it. If the can of Spam has cracks, punctures, or leakage, it could be spoiled. When it doubt, throw it out.

When planning for long storage, put the can of Spam in a cool, dry place. This will help preserve it for longer. If it's stored in a garage or another warm area, then it will likely spoil.

What Does Spam Taste Like Out Of The Can?

If you have never tried Spam, you may wonder what the pink chunk of meat tastes like. The Classic Spam flavor is salty with a slight spice. For some, there is nothing more delicious than Spam, but it's not for everyone.

You may be better off trying Spam for the first time when it's fried. Fried Spam has a firmer texture and combats the saltiness.

There are several flavors of Spam so you might like some more than others. For example, you can try the hickory smoke, teriyaki, jalapeno, or bacon flavor. Who knows, you may have found a new favorite snack.

Final Thoughts

With some patience and practice, you will figure out a way to get Spam out of the can. If you don't plan on using the whole can, storing it in the fridge or freezer will keep it fresh until you are ready to use it. Just be sure to watch for signs of spoilage, and toss it out if necessary.

Made it to the end? Here are other articles you might find helpful:

Is Canned Chicken Always Pre-Cooked?

Is Turkey Sausage Processed?

Should I Bake My Ham Covered Or Uncovered?