Ham is a popular topping for pizza, adding a savory and slightly sweet flavor that complements various other ingredients. Understanding the different types of ham and how they impact the taste and texture of your pizza can help you make informed decisions about which ham to use. This article explores various kinds of ham that are commonly used on pizza, their characteristics, and how to choose the best one for your pizza recipe.
See Also: What’s Kind of Tomatoes for Pizza Sauce?
Introduction to Ham as a Pizza Topping
The Role of Ham on Pizza
Ham adds a rich, salty flavor to pizza that contrasts well with the sweetness of tomato sauce and the creaminess of cheese. It also provides a protein boost, making the pizza more filling and satisfying. Ham pairs well with a variety of other toppings, including pineapple, mushrooms, and onions, making it a versatile choice for pizza.
Types of Ham Used in Pizza
Different types of ham offer distinct flavors and textures. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best ham for your pizza. The most common types of ham used on pizza include:
- Cooked Ham
- Prosciutto
- Canadian Bacon
- Serrano Ham
- Pancetta
- Jamón Ibérico
Cooked Ham
Characteristics
Cooked ham is one of the most commonly used hams on pizza. It is typically pre-cooked and sliced thin, making it easy to use as a pizza topping. Cooked ham is often available in deli sections of grocery stores and comes in various flavors, including honey, smoked, or plain.
Flavor and Texture
Cooked ham has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture. It does not have the intense saltiness or strong flavor of cured hams, making it a subtle addition to pizzas. Its tender texture works well with other pizza toppings and allows it to meld well with cheese and sauce.
How to Use Cooked Ham on Pizza
Preparation: Slice or dice the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces. If using pre-sliced ham, you may want to cut it into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution on the pizza.
Placement: Distribute the ham evenly over the pizza dough, along with other toppings.
Cooking: Bake the pizza as usual. Cooked ham requires no additional cooking, as it is already fully cooked.
Best Pairs with Cooked Ham
Cheese: Mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar.
Vegetables: Pineapple, bell peppers, onions.
Sauces: Tomato sauce or barbecue sauce.
Prosciutto
Characteristics
Prosciutto is a dry-cured ham that is typically served thinly sliced. It is an Italian delicacy known for its delicate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Prosciutto is often aged for several months, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
Flavor and Texture
Prosciutto has a savory, slightly sweet taste with a complex, nutty flavor due to the aging process. Its texture is thin and tender, which can add a touch of elegance to your pizza. Unlike cooked ham, prosciutto is not cooked further during the pizza baking process, so it remains delicate and slightly chewy.
How to Use Prosciutto on Pizza
Preparation: Slice the prosciutto very thinly. It is best added to the pizza after baking to maintain its delicate texture and flavor.
Placement: Arrange the prosciutto slices over the pizza once it comes out of the oven. This prevents the prosciutto from becoming overly crispy or losing its flavor.
Serving: Serve the pizza immediately after adding the prosciutto to enjoy its full flavor and texture.
Best Pairs with Prosciutto
Cheese: Arugula, goat cheese, or mozzarella.
Vegetables: Fresh figs, tomatoes, or spinach.
Sauces: Olive oil or a light tomato sauce.
Canadian Bacon
Characteristics
Canadian bacon is a type of back bacon that is lean and typically comes in round slices. It is similar to ham but has a different texture and flavor profile. Canadian bacon is typically fully cooked and can be used directly as a pizza topping.
Flavor and Texture
Canadian bacon has a slightly smoky, salty flavor with a tender, juicy texture. It is less fatty than traditional ham and provides a leaner option for those who prefer a healthier pizza topping.
How to Use Canadian Bacon on Pizza
Preparation: Slice or dice the Canadian bacon into small pieces if it is not already pre-sliced.
Placement: Scatter the Canadian bacon over the pizza dough, alongside other toppings.
Cooking: Canadian bacon can be added directly to the pizza before baking. It cooks well in the oven and pairs nicely with other ingredients.
Best Pairs with Canadian Bacon
Cheese: Mozzarella or cheddar.
Vegetables: Pineapple, mushrooms, or green peppers.
Sauces: Tomato sauce or a spicy barbecue sauce.
Serrano Ham
Characteristics
Serrano ham is a Spanish dry-cured ham that is known for its rich, complex flavor and slightly nutty taste. It is typically aged for several months and has a firm texture. Serrano ham is similar to prosciutto but with a more pronounced flavor.
Flavor and Texture
Serrano ham has a robust, savory flavor with a slightly salty taste. Its texture is firm yet tender, making it an excellent choice for adding a gourmet touch to your pizza.
How to Use Serrano Ham on Pizza
Preparation: Slice the Serrano ham thinly. Like prosciutto, it is best added after the pizza is baked to preserve its delicate texture.
Placement: Arrange the Serrano ham slices on the pizza just before serving.
Serving: Enjoy the pizza immediately to experience the full flavor of the Serrano ham.
Best Pairs with Serrano Ham
Cheese: Manchego or mozzarella.
Vegetables: Roasted red peppers, olives, or arugula.
Sauces: Tomato sauce or a balsamic glaze.
Pancetta
Characteristics
Pancetta is an Italian cured meat made from pork belly, similar to bacon but with a different seasoning profile. It is often used in Italian cuisine and adds a rich, savory flavor to dishes.
Flavor and Texture
Pancetta has a salty, spiced flavor with a fatty, tender texture. It can be either rolled and sliced thinly or diced into small pieces. Its robust flavor can enhance the taste of various pizza combinations.
How to Use Pancetta on Pizza
Preparation: Dice or slice the pancetta into small pieces. It can be used raw on pizza, as it will cook and crisp up during baking.
Placement: Distribute the pancetta evenly over the pizza dough along with other toppings.
Cooking: Bake the pizza as usual. Pancetta will render its fat during cooking, adding flavor to the pizza.
Best Pairs with Pancetta
Cheese: Fontina or mozzarella.
Vegetables: Caramelized onions, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
Sauces: Tomato sauce or a white garlic sauce.
Jamón Ibérico
Characteristics
Jamón Ibérico is a premium Spanish ham made from Iberian pigs, known for its deep, complex flavor and smooth texture. It is one of the finest cured hams and is often enjoyed on its own or as a high-quality topping.
Flavor and Texture
Jamón Ibérico has a rich, nutty flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Its high fat content provides a luxurious mouthfeel and a complex taste that enhances various dishes.
How to Use Jamón Ibérico on Pizza
Preparation: Slice the Jamón Ibérico thinly. Like other delicate hams, it is best added after baking to preserve its unique texture and flavor.
Placement: Lay the slices of Jamón Ibérico over the pizza once it is out of the oven.
Serving: Serve the pizza immediately to enjoy the full flavor of the Jamón Ibérico.
Best Pairs with Jamón Ibérico
Cheese: Manchego or burrata.
Vegetables: Fresh figs, arugula, or roasted red peppers.
Sauces: Olive oil or a light tomato sauce.
Choosing the Right Ham for Your Pizza
Considerations
When selecting ham for your pizza, consider the following factors:
Flavor Profile: Choose ham that complements the other toppings and sauce on your pizza.
Texture: Consider the texture of the ham and how it will interact with other ingredients.
Cooking Method: Decide whether the ham will be cooked on the pizza or added after baking.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice of ham will depend on your personal taste and the type of pizza you are making. Experiment with different hams to find the combination that you enjoy the most.
Conclusion
Ham is a versatile and flavorful topping that can enhance the taste of your pizza. Whether you prefer the mild flavor of cooked ham or the rich complexity of Jamón Ibérico, there is a ham variety to suit every palate. By understanding the different types of ham and how they contribute to your pizza, you can create delicious and satisfying pizzas tailored to your preferences. With the right ham and complementary ingredients, your homemade pizzas can rival those from your favorite pizzerias.
