As someone who’s prowled around many a kitchen – both high-end and the sparse setup you find in a tiny flat – I’ve come across an array of recipes that speak to resourcefulness and creativity. Today, I’m diving into the world of makeshift cuisine with a classic prison spread recipe. Whether you’re simply curious or find yourself needing to whip up something from very little, this guide will walk you through creating a dish that’s as ingenious as it is flavorful.
Prison Spread Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Total Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you start, grab these few items, crucial for making a prison spread recipe. You don’t need fancy gear – simplicity is key here:
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spoon or sturdy stirrer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Can opener
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Instant ramen | 2 packets |
| Canned tuna | 1 can |
| Mayonnaise | 2 tablespoons |
| Pickles | 1/4 cup, diced |
| Crackers | 1/2 cup, crushed |
| Hot sauce | To taste |
Fact: The prison spread, often called a ‘breakfast burrito’ in some circles, originated as a way for inmates to add flavor and substance using commissary items that could be easily traded or bought.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Ingredients
- Break the ramen noodles while still in the packet.
- Open the can of tuna and drain.
- Dice the pickles.
- Crush the crackers into a chunky consistency.
Note: Crushing the crackers before adding them helps to create a thick, satisfying texture in the final spread.
Step 2 – Combine the Base
- In your microwave-safe bowl, combine the broken ramen, tuna, and enough water to just cover the noodles.
- Microwave on high for about 5 minutes or until the noodles are soft.
- Drain any excess water carefully.
Warning: Be careful when draining the hot water to avoid burns.
Step 3 – Add the Flavors
- To the softened noodles and tuna, add the mayonnaise, diced pickles, and crushed crackers.
- Carefully mix all the parts together until they are well mixed.
- Season with hot sauce to taste.
Tip: Add hot sauce gradually, tasting as you go, to ensure it suits your spice tolerance.
Additional Tips
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, add extra crushed crackers on top before serving.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your preference for creaminess.
Pairing Suggestions
A good prison spread can surprisingly hold its own as a standalone dish. However, for those looking to add a little more:
- Serve with a side of vegetable sticks or a fresh salad to introduce some freshness.
- A simple iced tea or lemonade complements the spicy, savory flavors well.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 18g |
Approximation Note: Nutritional values are estimated based on the ingredients used.
Dietary Information
This prison spread recipe is an excellent choice for pescatarians and can be adapted for vegetarians by substituting the tuna with canned chickpeas. If you’re watching your diet closely, consider using low-fat mayonnaise.
FAQs about Prison Spread Recipe
Why is this dish called a ‘prison spread’?
Prison spread gets its name from the ingenuity of inmates who create substantial meals from limited pantry items available to them, often spread out on a communal table during preparation.
Can I make this recipe without a microwave?
Yes, you can use boiling water to soften the noodles instead. Just ensure they’re fully submerged in hot water in a heat-proof container for about 5 to 8 minutes.
What are some common variations of the prison spread recipe?
Inmates often get creative by adding ingredients like sliced sausages, cheese, or different spices, depending on what’s available.
Is the prison spread recipe healthy?
While it’s not the healthiest option due to its high sodium and fat content, it can be modified with healthier ingredients like low-sodium seasonings and lean protein sources.
How long does it take to prepare a prison spread?
From start to finish, you can have a prison spread ready in about 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy option.
Can I store leftovers?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Given the high sodium content and potential spiciness, it might not be suitable for younger children.
Conclusion
This prison spread recipe is a testament to culinary creativity under constraints. It’s quick, easy, and packs a flavorful punch that belies its humble beginnings.
Feel free to leave your thoughts, questions, or any tweaks you’ve tried in the comments below. Let’s get cooking!
Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:
- Joy of Cooking Meatloaf Recipe
- Chicken Sinatra Recipe
- Frontier Scallops Recipe
- Gyu Kaku Garlic Noodles Recipe
- Chamorro Empanada Recipe: A Culinary Delight from Guam
- Mike’s Farm Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prison Spread Recipe
Equipment
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spoon or sturdy stirrer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Can opener
Ingredients
- 2 packets Instant ramen
- 1 can Canned tuna
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Pickles diced
- 1/2 cup Crackers crushed
- Hot sauce to taste
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Ingredients
- Break the ramen noodles while still in the packet.
- Open the can of tuna and drain.
- Dice the pickles.
- Crush the crackers into a chunky consistency.
- Note: Crushing the crackers before adding them helps to create a thick, satisfying texture in the final spread.
Step 2 – Combine the Base
- In your microwave-safe bowl, combine the broken ramen, tuna, and enough water to just cover the noodles.
- Microwave on high for about 5 minutes or until the noodles are soft.
- Drain any excess water carefully.
- Warning: Be careful when draining the hot water to avoid burns.
Step 3 – Add the Flavors
- To the softened noodles and tuna, add the mayonnaise, diced pickles, and crushed crackers.
- Carefully mix all the parts together until they are well mixed.
- Season with hot sauce to taste.
- Tip: Add hot sauce gradually, tasting as you go, to ensure it suits your spice tolerance.
Notes
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, add extra crushed crackers on top before serving.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your preference for creaminess.
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