Does Hawaiian Pizza Have Bbq Sauce? The Answer Might Surprise You!

Hawaiian pizza is a popular dish that often sparks debate among food enthusiasts. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory ham on a crispy pizza crust is a unique and flavorful experience. However, one question that often arises is whether or not Hawaiian pizza should have barbecue sauce. This article delves into the history, variations, and opinions surrounding the use of barbecue sauce on Hawaiian pizza.

History of Hawaiian Pizza

The origins of Hawaiian pizza are somewhat obscure, with various claims about its creation. One popular story suggests that Sam Panopoulos, a Greek-Canadian restaurateur, invented the dish in the 1960s at his restaurant in Chatham, Ontario. Panopoulos reportedly combined canned pineapple, ham, bacon, and mozzarella cheese on a pizza crust, inspired by the flavors of Chinese cuisine. The pizza became a hit with customers and eventually gained popularity worldwide.

Variations of Hawaiian Pizza

Over the years, Hawaiian pizza has undergone several variations. Some common variations include:

• Canadian Hawaiian Pizza: This version typically includes bacon or Canadian bacon along with pineapple and ham.
• Tropical Hawaiian Pizza: This variation often incorporates tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, or kiwi, along with pineapple.
• BBQ Hawaiian Pizza: This version features a barbecue sauce base instead of the traditional tomato sauce.
• White Hawaiian Pizza: This variation uses a white sauce, such as Alfredo sauce, instead of tomato sauce.

The Debate: BBQ Sauce on Hawaiian Pizza

The use of barbecue sauce on Hawaiian pizza is a controversial topic among pizza lovers. Some argue that the sweetness of the barbecue sauce complements the pineapple and ham, creating a harmonious flavor combination. Others maintain that barbecue sauce overpowers the other ingredients and detracts from the classic Hawaiian pizza experience.

Opinions from Pizza Experts

Pizza experts have expressed varying opinions on the matter of barbecue sauce on Hawaiian pizza. Some renowned chefs and pizzaiolo have embraced the use of barbecue sauce, while others have vehemently opposed it.

• Chef John Folse: “I think barbecue sauce can be a great addition to Hawaiian pizza. It adds a smoky, tangy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the pineapple and the saltiness of the ham.”
• Pizzaiolo Tony Gemignani: “I believe that Hawaiian pizza should be made with a traditional tomato sauce. Barbecue sauce is too sweet and overpowering for the other ingredients.”

Popularity of BBQ Hawaiian Pizza

Despite the debate, BBQ Hawaiian pizza has gained popularity in recent years. Many pizza restaurants and chains now offer this variation on their menu, catering to those who enjoy the unique flavor combination.

Making BBQ Hawaiian Pizza at Home

If you’re interested in trying BBQ Hawaiian pizza, you can easily make it at home. Here’s a simple recipe:

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough or make your own using a simple recipe.
2. Spread the Barbecue Sauce: Once the dough is rolled out, spread a thin layer of barbecue sauce over it.
3. Add the Toppings: Arrange pineapple chunks, ham slices, and shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the barbecue sauce.
4. Bake the Pizza: Bake the pizza in a preheated oven according to the instructions on the pizza dough package or your recipe.
5. Enjoy: Once the pizza is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Key Points: A Matter of Personal Preference

Ultimately, the question of whether or not Hawaiian pizza should have barbecue sauce is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer, as both traditionalists and innovators have valid arguments. Whether you prefer the classic tomato sauce or enjoy the smoky tang of barbecue sauce, the best Hawaiian pizza is the one that you enjoy the most.

Questions You May Have

Q: Is barbecue sauce a common ingredient in Hawaiian pizza?
A: While barbecue sauce is not a traditional ingredient in Hawaiian pizza, it has gained popularity in recent years as a variation on the classic dish.

Q: What are some common toppings for BBQ Hawaiian pizza?
A: Common toppings for BBQ Hawaiian pizza include pineapple chunks, ham slices, shredded mozzarella cheese, and sometimes bacon or Canadian bacon.

Q: Can I make BBQ Hawaiian pizza at home?
A: Yes, you can easily make BBQ Hawaiian pizza at home using store-bought or homemade pizza dough, barbecue sauce, pineapple chunks, ham slices, and shredded mozzarella cheese.

Q: Are there any health benefits to eating Hawaiian pizza?
A: Hawaiian pizza can provide some health benefits due to the presence of pineapple, which is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. However, it’s important to note that Hawaiian pizza is typically high in calories and fat, so moderation is key.

Q: What are some other popular variations of Hawaiian pizza?
A: Some popular variations of Hawaiian pizza include Canadian Hawaiian pizza (with bacon or Canadian bacon), tropical Hawaiian pizza (with tropical fruits like mango or papaya), white Hawaiian pizza (with a white sauce instead of tomato sauce), and vegetarian Hawaiian pizza (without ham).