There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-crafted musubi. This iconic Hawaiian snack, often featuring Spam as its protein, is a testament to the island’s rich culinary heritage. But today, we’re taking a detour from the classic and diving into a flavor-packed alternative: Mochiko Chicken Musubi.
Mochiko Chicken Musubi: A Fun Twist on a Classic Hawaiian Snack
This Mochiko Chicken Musubi recipe is nestled between a bed of warm & fluffy rice and wrapped snugly in a sheet of savory nori. It’s a delicious and portable snack that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Hawaii.
During our recent stay in Poipu, we enjoyed this delightful Chicken Musubi at Sueoka’s Market in Koloa Town. It was the perfect picnic companion as we headed to Brenneckes Beach for a day of boogie boarding and snorkeling.
This recipe is not just a delicious snack; it’s also a fantastic way to utilize leftover Mochiko Chicken. However, if you don’t have any on hand, don’t worry! You can easily substitute it with other proteins like Spam, grilled chicken, teriyaki chicken, or even leftover roast beef.
A Bit of Musubi History
Musubi, a beloved Hawaiian dish, is a simple yet satisfying combination of rice, a protein filling, and nori seaweed. Its roots can be traced back to Japanese immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to the islands. While Spam musubi has become iconic, there’s a world of possibilities beyond the canned meat.
A Perfect Way to Use Up Leftovers
This Mochiko Chicken Musubi recipe is the ideal way to repurpose leftover Mochiko Chicken. However, if you don’t have any on hand, no worries! You can use other protein options like grilled chicken, teriyaki chicken, or even leftover roast beef.
Beyond Spam: Exploring Different Musubi Fillings
Musubi can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Classic: Spam, tuna, or salmon
- Elevated: Roe, fried chicken, kimchi or poke
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Tofu, tempeh, Loma Linda Plant-Based Choplets or Unmeat Plant Based Luncheon Meat
- Creative: Crispy fried pork tonkatsu, scrambled eggs, or fresh tempura shrimp
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Mochiko Chicken Musubi
Recipe by Jason Hill – CookingSessions.comEquipment
Ingredients
- 2-4 pieces Mochiko Chicken or your preferred protein
Glaze:
- 1/4 cup shoyu or soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp mirin
Assembly:
- 2 sheets sushi nori
- 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice warm
- 2 tsp Furikake
Instructions
Make the Glaze:
- Combine shoyu, sugar, and mirin in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until a sticky glaze forms.
Toast the Nori:
- Briefly toast nori sheets over a gas burner or in a hot oven. Cut each sheet into thirds lengthwise.
Assemble the Musubi:
- Moisten the inside of a musubi mold.
- Place a nori strip on a clean surface.
- Fill the mold with rice and press firmly.
- Top with glaze and Mochiko Chicken.
- Roll the musubi tightly in the nori.
- Seal the edge with a dab of water if needed.
- Serve immediately or store for later. Enjoy this fun and flavorful twist on a classic Hawaiian snack!
