Hawaiian pizza is one of the most debated and beloved pizzas in the world. Some people love its sweet and savory combination, while others can’t stand the idea of pineapple on pizza. But what exactly is Hawaiian pizza, and why does it inspire such strong feelings? In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this iconic dish.
What is Hawaiian Pizza?
Hawaiian pizza is a type of pizza that combines sweet and savory flavors. It typically includes tomato sauce, cheese, ham, and pineapple as its main ingredients. The contrast between the salty ham and the sweet pineapple makes it a unique and memorable pizza.
Despite its name, Hawaiian pizza did not originate in Hawaii. It was actually created in Canada in the 1960s. The name comes from the brand of canned pineapple used by the inventor, which was called “Hawaiian.”
The History of Hawaiian Pizza
The Invention of Hawaiian Pizza
Hawaiian pizza was invented in 1962 by Sam Panopoulos, a Greek-Canadian restaurateur. He and his brothers owned a restaurant in Chatham, Ontario, called the Satellite Restaurant. At the time, pizza was still a relatively new dish in Canada, and Panopoulos wanted to experiment with different toppings.
One day, he decided to add canned pineapple and ham to a pizza. The result was a hit with his customers, and Hawaiian pizza was born.
Why Pineapple?
Panopoulos was inspired by the sweet and savory flavors found in Chinese cuisine. He thought that pineapple would add a unique twist to the traditional pizza. At the time, using fruit on pizza was unheard of, but Panopoulos was willing to take the risk.
The Rise in Popularity
Hawaiian pizza quickly gained popularity in Canada and eventually spread to the United States and other parts of the world. Today, it’s a staple on pizza menus everywhere, though it remains a controversial choice.
Key Ingredients in Hawaiian Pizza
1. Pizza Dough
The foundation of any pizza is the dough. Hawaiian pizza typically uses a classic thin or medium-thick crust. The dough is made from flour, water, yeast, salt, and a bit of olive oil. It’s rolled out into a circle and baked to perfection.
2. Tomato Sauce
The next layer is the tomato sauce. This is usually a simple sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like oregano and basil. The sauce adds a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
3. Cheese
Cheese is a crucial component of Hawaiian pizza. Mozzarella is the most commonly used cheese because it melts well and has a mild flavor. Some recipes also include a bit of cheddar for extra richness.
4. Ham
Ham is the primary meat topping on Hawaiian pizza. It’s usually diced or sliced and spread evenly over the pizza. The salty flavor of the ham pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple.
5. Pineapple
Pineapple is the star of Hawaiian pizza. It’s typically canned pineapple chunks that are drained and scattered over the pizza. The pineapple adds a juicy, sweet flavor that contrasts with the savory ham and cheese.
6. Optional Toppings
While ham and pineapple are the classic toppings, some variations of Hawaiian pizza include additional ingredients.
These might include:
Bacon for extra smokiness
Bell peppers for a bit of crunch
Jalapeños for a spicy kick
Onions for added flavor
The Sweet and Savory Debate
Hawaiian pizza is famous for sparking debates. Some people love the combination of sweet pineapple and savory ham, while others think fruit has no place on pizza.
Why People Love It
Fans of Hawaiian pizza appreciate the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the saltiness of the ham, creating a unique taste experience. It’s also a refreshing change from more traditional pizza toppings.
Why People Hate It
Critics argue that pineapple doesn’t belong on pizza. They say the sweetness is out of place and clashes with the other flavors. Some also dislike the texture of warm pineapple.
The Internet’s Take
The debate over Hawaiian pizza has become a popular topic on the internet. Memes, polls, and social media posts often discuss whether pineapple belongs on pizza. Even celebrities and politicians have weighed in on the controversy.
How to Make Hawaiian Pizza at Home
Making Hawaiian pizza at home is easy and fun.
Here’s a simple recipe to try:
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- Optional: bacon, bell peppers, or jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add the diced ham and pineapple chunks.
- If desired, add any optional toppings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Variations of Hawaiian Pizza
While the classic Hawaiian pizza is delicious, there are many ways to customize it.
Here are a few popular variations:
BBQ Hawaiian Pizza
Replace the tomato sauce with barbecue sauce for a smoky twist. Add chicken instead of ham for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Hawaiian Pizza
Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your pizza a spicy kick. You can also use spicy ham or pepperoni for extra heat.
Vegetarian Hawaiian Pizza
Skip the ham and add mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a vegetarian version. You can also use vegan cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Breakfast Hawaiian Pizza
Turn Hawaiian pizza into a breakfast dish by adding eggs and bacon. This is a fun way to enjoy pizza in the morning.
Pairing Hawaiian Pizza with Drinks
Hawaiian pizza pairs well with a variety of drinks.
Here are some suggestions:
Beer
A light lager or pilsner complements the sweetness of the pineapple and the saltiness of the ham.
Wine
A Riesling or Moscato pairs well with the sweet and savory flavors of Hawaiian pizza.
Soda
A pineapple soda or ginger ale enhances the tropical vibe of the pizza.
Non-Alcoholic Options
For a non-alcoholic option, try pineapple juice or sparkling water with a slice of lime.
Fun Facts About Hawaiian Pizza
- Hawaiian pizza is one of the most popular pizza varieties in Australia.
- In 2017, the president of Iceland joked about banning pineapple on pizza, sparking a global debate.
- Sam Panopoulos, the inventor of Hawaiian pizza, passed away in 2017, but his creation lives on.
- Hawaiian pizza is often featured in pizza-eating challenges due to its unique flavor.
Conclusion
Hawaiian pizza is a unique and delicious dish that continues to spark debates and delight taste buds around the world. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying its impact on pizza culture. With its sweet pineapple, savory ham, and gooey cheese, Hawaiian pizza is a true classic that’s here to stay.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for pizza, why not give Hawaiian pizza a try? You might just discover a new favorite!
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