Coming from a country where nearly everyone loves to eat Spam (Hong Kong), it was quite a culture shock when I realized some of my friends here in the States have never even tried it — and some even winced at the thought of trying this American food novelty. I’ve decided to share a few ways you can eat Spam without cringing.

1. Spam Easy Mac

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Photo by Jessica Wong

You already know you have boxes of Easy Mac laying around in your room. Add some protein into it by dicing up Spam, lightly frying the pieces, and mixing them into your mac and cheese.

2. Spam and Pineapple Skewers

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Photo by Jessica Wong

It may sound weird, but this delicious combination of salty and sweet will blow your mind. Just put chunks of pineapples and Spam onto toothpicks and serve for an easy to make snack.

3. Spamwich

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Photo by Jessica Wong

When you get sick of your boring ham and cheese or turkey sandwich, try replacing those #basic deli meats with Spam and scrambled eggs. You can thank me later.

4. Spam Omelette

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Photo by Jessica Wong

Omelettes can survive without ham or sausage. How? Just chop some Spam up for your eggs and make with this recipe.

5. Spam and Ramen

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Photo by Jessica Wong

Ramen noodles are life savers for college kids on tight funds. Instant ramen alone can get super boring after a while, so I always like to spice it up with an egg and some fried Spam. This inexpensive topping will also instantly make your meal more filling. Go crazy and try combining Spam with one of these unique ramen upgrades.

6. Spam Pasta Carbonara

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Photo by Jessica Wong

I am not a fan of bacon. Yes, you read that right. I don’t like oily, fatty bacon on my salad or pasta, but I sure love Spam. Try replacing bacon with Spam in your carbonara and cook up some easy and delicious pasta to impress your family and friends.

7. Spam Salad

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Photo by Jessica Wong

Who says salad has to be healthy? Add some fried Spam instead of getting the same old grilled chicken. It may look weird, but you won’t know if you like it until you try it.