Hawaiian pizza has a contentious origin, often attributed to Canadian restaurateur Sam Panopoulos in the 1960s. Panopoulos purportedly added pineapple and ham to pizza, inspired by the sweet and savory combination. While its Hawaiian association may seem odd, the name likely stems from the use of pineapple, a fruit associated with Hawaii.
The flavor profile of Hawaiian pizza is a unique blend of sweetness from the pineapple, saltiness from the ham, and the savory notes from the cheese and tomato sauce. This combination has sparked debates among pizza enthusiasts about whether fruit belongs on a pizza, making it a polarizing choice among pizza lovers.
Despite the controversy, Hawaiian pizza has gained widespread popularity globally. Its contrasting flavors attract those who appreciate the adventurous fusion of sweet and savory elements. In many pizzerias and restaurants, you can find variations of this pizza on the menu, reflecting its enduring popularity.
Hawaiian pizza is typically served in the traditional round form, with a base of tomato sauce and melted cheese. The pineapple and ham are evenly distributed, creating a visually appealing and tasty pie. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a whole pizza or by the slice, making it a go-to option for those seeking a departure from more conventional pizza flavors.
Hawaiian pizza
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sliced ham
- ½ cup pineapple chunks
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Evenly distribute the sliced ham, pineapple chunks, and red onion over the cheese.
- Transfer the pizza to a preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped cilantro over the hot pizza.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
