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Hawaiian (Ham and Pineapple) Pizza

A vibrant, freshly baked homemade pizza crust topped with a tantalizing array of toppings. In the foreground, thick slices of juicy ham and sweet, golden pineapple chunks create a harmonious Hawaiian-inspired medley. The middle ground features a scattering of other tempting toppings like crisp green bell peppers, savory mushrooms, and zesty red onion slices. The background showcases a warm, cozy kitchen setting with natural lighting filtering in, casting a soft, inviting glow over the scene. The overall atmosphere is one of mouthwatering anticipation, enticing the viewer to imagine the tantalizing flavors and textures of this homemade pizza creation.

Hawaiian Pizza is a delightful medley of flavors that dances on your taste buds, combining the smoky, savory allure of ham with the bright, juicy sweetness of pineapple. The perfect harmony of these ingredients atop a canvas of gooey mozzarella and rich tomato sauce makes for a truly unforgettable pizza experience. Now, let me take you on a journey through its origins and unique flavor profile.

Origins of Hawaiian Pizza

Despite its name, Hawaiian Pizza didn’t originate from the sun-soaked islands of Hawaii. The story goes that this iconic creation was born in the 1960s in a small pizzeria in Canada. Sam Panopoulos, a Greek immigrant, is credited with the invention. In a stroke of culinary curiosity, he decided to mix the unlikely duo of ham and pineapple on a pizza, challenging traditional norms and sparking a worldwide debate over pineapple's rightful place on this beloved dish.

Unique Ingredients and Flavors

The magic of Hawaiian Pizza lies in its unique combination of ingredients. The ham, often smoked or honey-glazed, brings a savory depth that contrasts beautifully with the pineapple's bright, tangy sweetness. This flavor duo is further enhanced by the creamy mozzarella cheese, which melts into a golden layer, enveloping the toppings in cheesy goodness. The base, a classic pizza dough, provides a satisfying, crisp texture that holds all the components together in perfect symphony. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous eater, the burst of contrasting flavors in Hawaiian Pizza offers a compelling reason to revisit this culinary classic, each bite a reminder of how unexpected combinations can create something truly special.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Rest Time 30 mins
Total Time 1 hr 30 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 475  F
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: 10
Calories: 240 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

Sweet, savory, and utterly delightful, this pizza brings the tropics to your table with juicy pineapple and savory ham on a perfect crust.

Ingredients
    Pizza Dough
  • 1 lb pizza dough (You can use homemade or store-bought dough.)
    • Pizza Toppings
  • 1 cup pizza sauce (Choose a sauce with your preferred level of sweetness or tang.)
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese (Grated for easy melting.)
  • 6 oz ham (Thinly sliced or diced; use your favorite deli ham.)
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (Drained if using canned; fresh pineapple adds more flavor.)
  • 1 tsp olive oil (For brushing the crust.)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (Optional, for extra flavor.)
Instructions
    Preparing the Dough
  1. 1
    Mix and Knead the DoughCombine flour, yeast, salt, and a touch of sugar in a large bowl. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    Don't rush the kneading—this is where the magic happens, creating a dough with perfect chewiness.
  2. 2
    Let it RisePlace the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
    If you're short on time, use a warm oven (turned off) to speed up the rising process.
    3. Preparing the Toppings
  3. 3
    Prepare the SauceIn a small bowl, mix tomato sauce with a pinch of oregano and a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor.
    Homemade sauce is a game-changer, but your favorite store-bought variety works too.
  4. 4
    Get Toppings ReadySlice ham into thin strips and drain pineapple chunks thoroughly to avoid soggy pizza.
    Pat the pineapple with a paper towel to remove excess juice.
    5. Assembling the Pizza
  5. 5
    Shape the DoughPunch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
    For a crispier crust, preheat the stone or sheet before adding the dough.
  6. 6
    Add the SauceSpread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
    Less is more—too much sauce can make the pizza soggy.
  7. 7
    Layer the ToppingsSprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then evenly distribute the ham strips and pineapple chunks.
    Feel free to get creative and add some chili flakes or fresh basil for a twist.
    8. Baking the Pizza
  8. 8
    Bake to PerfectionBake in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
    Rotate the pizza midway through baking for even cooking.
    9. Serving
  9. 9
    Slice and ServeAllow the pizza to cool for a minute, then slice it up and serve immediately.
    A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an unexpected but delightful tang.
Note

For a perfect Hawaiian pizza, opt for a thin, crisp crust to balance the rich toppings. Pre-cook the ham slices slightly to intensify their savory flavor. Choose a high-quality pizza sauce, or better yet, make your own for a fresher taste. Use fresh pineapple for a juicy, sweet contrast; canned works in a pinch but can be overly sweet. Consider using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a creamy, tangy finish. Scatter the toppings evenly to ensure every bite is harmonious. Bake on a pizza stone if available—it will give you that pizzeria-like crispness. Keep an eye on the oven; you’re looking for bubbling cheese and a golden crust. Experiment with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh cilantro before serving for an unexpected twist.

Keywords: Hawaiian pizza, ham, pineapple, tropical, pizza
Read it online: https://bestrecipesblog.com/recipe/hawaiian-ham-and-pineapple-pizza/