Top 2025 Best Pizzas
- Hawaiian Pizza
- Margherita Pizza
- Quattro Stagioni
- Prosciutto e Rucola
- Four Cheese Pizza
- Spicy Pepperoni
- Veggie Delight
- BBQ Chicken Pizza
- Seafood Pizza
When it comes to culinary creations that spark passionate debates, few dishes can match the controversy surrounding the pineapple pizza. This tropical twist on an Italian classic has divided food lovers across the globe, yet continues to maintain a loyal following. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a curious sceptic, the story behind this sweet and savoury masterpiece deserves attention.
The delightful combination of sweet and savoury
The Hawaiian pizza, featuring the distinctive combination of pineapple, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and ham or bacon, represents one of the most innovative approaches to pizza making. Created in 1962 by Greek immigrant Sam Panopoulos in Chatham-Kent, Ontario, this Canadian invention has transformed the pizza landscape forever. Contrary to what many assume, the name ‘Hawaiian’ actually derives from the brand of tinned pineapple used in the original recipe, not from any connection to the American state.
How pineapple enhances traditional pizza flavours
What makes pineapple such a compelling pizza topping is its ability to introduce a refreshing sweetness that cuts through the rich umami flavours of cheese and tomato sauce. The juicy fruit adds a burst of tropical tang that transforms an ordinary pizza into something extraordinary. When cooking pineapple pizza in high-quality ovens like the Dome or Roccbox, the fruit caramelises slightly, intensifying its natural sweetness while developing complex flavour notes that complement the savoury base perfectly.
The perfect balance of tangy pineapple with salty ham
The genius of Hawaiian pizza lies in its carefully balanced flavour profile. The slight acidity and sweetness of pineapple create a perfect counterpoint to the saltiness of ham or bacon. This interplay of contrasting tastes exemplifies what culinary experts call flavour harmony. Some innovative chefs, following the lead of renowned Italian pizzaiolo Franco Pepe, have elevated this concept by using fresh pineapple paired with premium ingredients like prosciutto, creating a more refined version of the classic. When prepared in a wood-fired pizza oven like the Arc XL, which can accommodate larger 16-inch pizzas, the ingredients meld together in a symphony of taste that showcases why this controversial topping has endured for decades.
Why pineapple pizza deserves its global popularity
Despite the controversy, pineapple pizza has achieved remarkable popularity worldwide. In 1999, it claimed the title of Australia’s most popular pizza, accounting for an impressive 15% of all pizza sales. Similarly, a 2015 UK review found Hawaiian pizza was the most commonly available takeaway pizza option. These statistics reflect not just a passing trend but a genuine appreciation for this unique flavour combination. Time magazine recognised its cultural significance by including Hawaiian pizza in its list of the 13 most influential pizzas in 2014, cementing its place in culinary history.
Famous chefs who champion this controversial topping
While some celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay have vocally opposed pineapple on pizza, others have embraced it wholeheartedly. Notable supporters include Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and actor Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, who have publicly defended this culinary choice. The debate even reached political dimensions when Icelandic President Gudni Thorlacius Johannesson jokingly suggested banning pineapple on pizza in 2017, sparking an international conversation about pizza toppings. The passionate responses from both sides demonstrate how deeply food choices can reflect personal identity and cultural values.
Cultural impact of pineapple pizza across different countries
The influence of Hawaiian pizza extends far beyond Canada, with interesting variations appearing in different cultures. In Germany, a similar creation called ‘Toast Hawaii’ featuring ham, pineapple and cheese appeared as early as 1955, predating the pizza version. Meanwhile, in Portland, Oregon, a 1957 menu featured a ‘Hawaiian Pizza’ that included pineapple, papaya, and chopped green pepper, but notably lacked ham or bacon. More recently, a Norwich pizzeria made headlines by charging £100 for pineapple pizza as a statement of their culinary position, while Amsterdam’s nNea, voted the 8th best pizzeria in Europe, demonstrates how even traditional pizza cultures have embraced innovation. When prepared in portable pizza ovens like the Tread, Hawaiian pizza becomes a global dish that can be enjoyed anywhere, bringing its unique flavours to pizza enthusiasts worldwide.
