If you love sweet and savory together, Hawaiian pizza is perfect. As a cook and food blogger, I’ve tried many versions. The mix of tangy pineapple, salty ham, and gooey cheese is amazing. This guide will help you make a delicious Hawaiian pizza at home.
Ingredients (Servings: 4 people)
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup diced ham (or Canadian bacon)
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Timing
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Dough Rising Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
How to Prepare the Dough for Hawaiian Pizza
Start by mixing sugar and warm water, then add yeast. Wait 5 minutes until it’s frothy. This means the yeast is ready.
In a big bowl, mix flour and salt. Make a hole in the middle and add the yeast mix and oil. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it’s smooth. Put it in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for an hour.
The Perfect Pizza Sauce for Hawaiian Pizza
Make a tasty pizza sauce by heating oil in a pan. Add garlic and cook until it smells good. Then, add tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper.
Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors. For extra flavor, add a bit of red pepper flakes.
Choosing the Right Toppings for Hawaiian Pizza
Choose fresh pineapple for the best flavor. Smoked ham or Canadian bacon is great for the ham. Thinly sliced red onions add a nice sharpness and color.
Finally, use a lot of mozzarella cheese to bring everything together.
Step-by-Step Guide: Assembling Your Hawaiian Pizza
Preheat your oven: Set your oven to its highest temperature, usually around 500°F (260°C). If you have a pizza stone, put it in the oven to heat up too.
Roll out the dough: Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Then, place it on a pizza peel or a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Add the sauce: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Top with cheese and toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Add diced ham, pineapple, and red onions evenly.
Bake: Put the pizza in the preheated oven or on the pizza stone. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish and serve: After baking, let the pizza cool for a minute. Then, garnish with fresh basil, slice, and serve.
Tips for Baking Hawaiian Pizza to Perfection
1- Preheat the oven and pizza stone: A hot oven and a preheated pizza stone help achieve a crispy crust.
2- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pineapple and quality ham enhance the flavor.
3- Don’t overload with toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy.
Variations of Hawaiian Pizza: Creative Toppings and Twists
Try unique toppings like crispy bacon, jalapeños for spice, or barbecue sauce. For a vegetarian option, swap ham with roasted bell peppers and red onions. Experiment with cheeses like provolone or gouda for a richer taste.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pizza: Sides and Drinks
Pair your Hawaiian pizza with a light salad, like arugula and cherry tomatoes with balsamic glaze. For drinks, a cold beer or fruity white wine complements the flavors well. For a non-alcoholic choice, a pineapple or mango juice spritzer is refreshing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Hawaiian Pizza
1- Using canned pineapple with too much juice: Drain the pineapple well to prevent a soggy pizza.
2- Overloading with cheese and toppings: Balance toppings to avoid a greasy pizza.
3- Not preheating the oven: A hot oven is key for a crispy crust.
Health Benefits of Hawaiian Pizza
Hawaiian pizza is a mix of protein, vitamins, and fiber. Enjoy it in moderation, choosing lean meats and fresh ingredients. Pineapple also has bromelain, which aids digestion.
Nutritional Facts
For a typical serving (1/4 of the pizza), the nutritional breakdown is approximately:
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 7g
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.
Q: What can I use instead of ham?
A: You can use bacon, prosciutto, or even a vegetarian option like roasted vegetables.
Q: Can I freeze leftover pizza?
A: Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Hawaiian pizza is a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. By following this recipe, you’ll make a homemade version that rivals your favorite pizzeria.
Remember, the key to a great pizza is quality ingredients and attention to detail. Enjoy the process of making it, and savor every bite!