When I saw that Waikiki was hosting a 2011 SPAM Jam to benefit the Honolulu Food Bank, I had to attend. The possibilities of "delicious SPAM dishes await you" and the opportunity to enjoy local music in a fabulous outdoor setting was just too irrestible to pass up. Besides, I had never eaten SPAM, and this hole in my foodie life needed to be filled.

Hawaii leads the country in consumption of SPAM luncheon meat, An estimated 16 tins of the pre-cooked pork and ham combo are consumed annually in the islands. Introduced in 1937 by the Hormel Company, SPAM today enjoys  legendary status as a food staple. It endures.

The Honolulu Food Bank was hoping to capture 20,000 cans of donated SPAM at the SPAM Jam. For those who donated $5 or more, a free can of SPAM-flavored macadamia nuts was given. The crowds were large and enthusiastic. Amazing smells filled Kalakaua Avenue .

A worthy cause, definitely, but let's get to the "meat" of the event: the SPAM itself. Several local restaurants offered up their signature dishes, remade with SPAM. These included SPAM volcano nachos, SPAM spring rolls, garlic shrimp and SPAM skewers, SPAM mac and cheese and...wait for it...SPAM ice pops. (Sorry, I couldn't go there.)

I timidly tried the mac and cheese, and looked a little longingly at the SPAM yakisoba noodle plates. I'm not a huge fan, but what struck me about SPAM Jam was the amazing variety of dishes that adapted well to the addition of SPAM. You could do the same with chunks of cooked ham, too, or other meats.  SPAM is a protein meat, and like other proteins, you can often experiment and sub out different ones to see which you like best.

In the meantime, you might consider serving your family this American staple. Some people jump in with enthusiasm , just frying it like sausage for a breakfast meat. They discover they love the taste. For more reluctant eaters, try it stealthily mixed with a favorite dish, like a pasta carbonera or fried rice. You might be pleasantly surprised at its versatility. For more information about SPAM, including recipes, check out www.spam.com  Long live SPAM!