Hawaiian Pizza
The most controversial pizza in America! Despite its name, Hawaiian pizza was invented in Canada in 1962, but its tropical flavors have become synonymous with the Aloha State. Sweet pineapple, savory ham, tangy tomato sauce, and stretchy mozzarella.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Make the dough: Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand 5-10 minutes until foamy. Combine flour and salt, add yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead 8-10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise 1 hour.
Make the sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan, add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, and salt. Simmer 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened. Let cool.
Drain the pineapple: If using canned pineapple, drain very well and pat dry with paper towels. Excess moisture is the enemy of a crispy pizza.
Preheat oven: Place pizza stone on the lowest rack and preheat to 500°F (260°C) for at least 30 minutes.
Shape the pizza: Punch down dough and stretch or roll into a 14-inch round. Transfer to a cornmeal-dusted pizza peel.
Assemble: Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly, then distribute ham and pineapple chunks across the pizza.
Bake: Slide pizza onto the hot stone and bake 10-12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
Finish: Remove from oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Let rest 2-3 minutes before slicing.
Serve: Slice and serve hot. Embrace the controversy and enjoy every sweet and savory bite!
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- The origin story: Hawaiian pizza was actually invented in Canada by Sam Panopoulos in 1962. The name comes from the brand of canned pineapple he used.
- Drain that pineapple: The #1 reason Hawaiian pizzas fail is too much moisture. Pat pineapple very dry!
- Upgrade the ham: Use Canadian bacon or prosciutto for a more elevated version.
- Add jalapenos: The sweet-heat combo is incredible. Add sliced jalapenos for a spicy Hawaiian.
- BBQ sauce base: Try BBQ sauce instead of tomato sauce for a BBQ Hawaiian variation.
- Maui style: Add teriyaki sauce, bacon, and use grilled pineapple for a true Hawaiian islands flavor.