The History of Hawaiian Pizza
Hawaiian Pizza was invented in 1962 by Sam Panopoulos, a Greek-Canadian chef, in Ontario, Canada. Contrary to popular belief, this pizza did not originate in Hawaii. The name “Hawaiian” comes from the brand of canned pineapple that Panopoulos used in his original recipe. Over the years, this pizza has gained worldwide popularity and is now enjoyed in many countries.
Hawaiian Pizza Recipes
Hawaiian Pizza is a unique and delicious dish that combines the flavors of tangy pineapple, savory ham, and melted cheese on a crispy pizza crust. This sweet and savory combination has sparked debates among pizza lovers, but it remains a favorite for many. In this article, we will explore the history of Hawaiian Pizza, provide a detailed recipe, and share tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water 110°F or 45°C
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pizza Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked ham sliced or diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks fresh or canned, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano optional
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
Roll Out the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a 12-inch circle or your preferred shape.
- Transfer the dough to a greased pizza pan or a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Assemble the Pizza
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Evenly distribute the ham and pineapple chunks over the pizza.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- (Optional) Add dried oregano and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Bake the Pizza
- Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.
Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the pizza into even portions.
- Serve hot and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of Hawaiian Pizza!
Notes
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Pizza
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh pineapple adds a natural sweetness compared to canned pineapple.
- Drain the Pineapple Well – Too much juice can make the pizza soggy.
- Thin vs. Thick Crust – Adjust the dough thickness based on your preference.
- Preheat the Oven Properly – A hot oven ensures a crispy crust.
- Experiment with Toppings – Try bacon, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- BBQ Hawaiian Pizza: Use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Hawaiian Pizza: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
- Vegetarian Hawaiian Pizza: Replace ham with plant-based alternatives or extra veggies.
- Extra Cheesy Hawaiian Pizza: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and gouda.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks for a hearty dinner.
- Enjoy with a tropical drink like a pineapple smoothie or iced tea.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warm.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Pizza is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that has won the hearts of many pizza lovers worldwide. Whether you make it from scratch or use store-bought dough, this pizza is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a homemade version of this classic dish!
