Hawaiian Pizza

Hawaiian Pizza 

Hawaiian pizza, contrary to its name, hails not from the tropical islands of Hawaii but from Canada. It was invented in 1962 by Sam Panopoulos, a Greek-born restaurateur in Ontario, who took a bold step by adding canned pineapple to a traditional ham pizza. The result was a sweet and savory combination that sparked widespread intrigue—and controversy. Though divisive, the pairing of juicy pineapple with salty ham and melted cheese became a global phenomenon, featured in countless modern food recipes and turning Hawaiian pizza into one of the most recognizable and debated styles of pizza worldwide.

The essence of Hawaiian pizza lies in the contrast of Flavors and textures. It typically features a tomato-based sauce, mozzarella cheese, cooked ham, and pineapple chunks, all layered on a classic pizza dough. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the saltiness of the ham, while the cheese melts into a creamy layer that ties everything together. Over time, variations have emerged, such as adding crispy bacon or red onion for extra depth. Whether loved or loathed, Hawaiian pizza represents the creativity and cultural fusion that define modern pizza innovation.

Hawaiian Pizza Recipe

Servings: 1 large pizza (12–14 inches)
Prep Time: 1.5 hours (including dough rise time)
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups (440 g) all-purpose or bread flour
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup (120 ml) tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1 ½ to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced or sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained thoroughly
• Optional: ¼ cup cooked bacon bits or sliced red onion
• Optional: Fresh basil or chili flakes for garnish

Instructions

1.   Prepare the Dough:

o   In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

o   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir and knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

o   Form into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2.   Preheat the Oven:

o   Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.

3.   Make the Sauce:

o   In a small bowl, mix tomato sauce with oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

4.   Assemble the Pizza:

o   Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12–14 inch circle on a floured surface.

o   Transfer to a pizza peel lined with parchment paper or a greased baking sheet.

o   Spread the sauce evenly over the dough.

o   Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce.

o   Add the diced ham and pineapple chunks evenly across the surface. Include bacon or onion if using.

5.   Bake:

o   Carefully transfer the pizza to the oven or preheated pizza stone.

o   Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

6.   Serve:

o   Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing.

o   Garnish with optional fresh basil or chili flakes and enjoy!

Hawaiian pizza is best served hot, where the cheese stretches and the contrasting Flavors come alive with every bite.

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