Kamil Perry
Hawaiian pizza is a combination of sweet and savoury flavours, with its salty, melty cheese, ham, and pineapple. The cheese is usually mozzarella, but there are several other options that pair well with the pineapple, such as cheddar, provolone, gouda, and Parmigiano Reggiano.
Characteristics and Values of Cheese on a Hawaiian Pizza
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Mozzarella, Cheddar, Provolone, Gouda, Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, Asiago Stagionato, Tarentaise |
| Texture | Melty, Creamy, Shredded |
| Taste | Salty, Fruity |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella is the standard cheese for Hawaiian pizza
Mozzarella is the standard cheese used for Hawaiian pizza. It is a cooked-curd, mountain cheese that melts very well, making it an excellent choice for pizza toppings. When using mozzarella, it is best to shred the cheese yourself from a block of whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella as pre-shredded cheese has a coating that makes it harder to melt.
While mozzarella is the standard, it is not the only cheese that can be used for Hawaiian pizza. Other cheeses that can be used include cheddar, provolone, gouda, pecorino romano, grana padano, parmigiano reggiano, and asiago stagionato. These cheeses can be used in combination with mozzarella or as a substitute.
The sweet and juicy pineapple and savory ham toppings on a Hawaiian pizza pair well with the saltiness of mozzarella. This combination of flavors and the meltiness of the cheese make it a popular choice for this style of pizza.
When making a Hawaiian pizza, it is recommended to use fresh, high-quality pineapple that has been diced or cut into tidbits and patted dry to prevent excess moisture from forming during baking. Canned pineapple can also be used, but it should be completely drained to avoid a soggy pizza.
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Other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, gouda, and asiago stagionato can be used
While mozzarella is the standard cheese used on a Hawaiian pizza, other cheeses can be used to add variety and a different flavour profile. Other cheeses that melt well, such as cheddar, provolone, gouda, and asiago stagionato, can be used to add a different dimension to the classic Hawaiian pizza. These cheeses can help bridge the gap between the tomato sauce and the pineapple, creating a more cohesive flavour profile.
Cheddar, for example, has a sharp and slightly tangy flavour that can stand up to the sweetness of the pineapple. Provolone has a mild and slightly nutty flavour that can complement the other ingredients without overwhelming them. Gouda has a creamy and slightly sweet flavour that can enhance the sweetness of the pineapple. Finally, asiago stagionato is a firmer and saltier Italian cheese that can add a salty funk to the pizza, playing off the sweet and juicy pineapple.
When choosing a cheese to use on a Hawaiian pizza, it is important to consider the melting point of the cheese. Cheeses that melt well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and gouda, are ideal as they will create a creamy and cohesive texture on the pizza. Asiago stagionato, while firmer, can also melt well and add a salty and funky flavour. These cheeses can also be combined with mozzarella to create a unique flavour profile while still retaining the classic taste of a Hawaiian pizza.
In addition to the type of cheese, the quality of the cheese is also important. Using high-quality, freshly shredded cheese will result in a better melt and a more flavourful pizza. Pre-shredded cheese has a coating that prevents it from melting as easily, so shredding your own cheese is recommended. This will ensure that the cheese melts evenly and creates a creamy and bubbly texture on the pizza.
By experimenting with different cheeses, you can create a Hawaiian pizza that is unique and tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you choose to use a single type of cheese or a combination, the key is to find a balance between the sweet, salty, and savoury elements of the pizza. So, feel free to get creative and explore the endless possibilities that these alternative cheeses have to offer!
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Freshly diced pineapple is preferred over canned or frozen
The classic Hawaiian pizza combines cheese, cooked ham, pineapple, and bacon. While pineapple on pizza has been a topic of debate, it is not as disliked and contended in the United States as some would think. In 2020, GrubHub named Hawaiian pizza "America's Favorite Pizza", and 47% of Americans approve of pineapple on pizza.
Some recipes recommend placing the pineapple chunks on paper towels after draining them to further remove excess moisture. The pineapple chunks can then be placed on the pizza and baked for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
While the use of fresh pineapple is recommended, ultimately, the choice of pineapple, and whether to use it at all, is a matter of personal preference.
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Pat dry the pineapple to prevent excess moisture
Hawaiian pizza is a delicious combination of sweet pineapple, savoury ham, and salty cheese. It's a perfect blend of flavours and textures, and it's no wonder that it's a favourite for many.
The key to a great Hawaiian pizza is in the preparation, and one crucial step is patting dry the pineapple. Fresh pineapple is always the best option, as it adds a touch of freshness and tastes much better than canned or frozen alternatives. However, fresh pineapple contains a lot of moisture, and if not properly dried, it can make your pizza soggy.
To prevent this, it's essential to pat the pineapple chunks or slices thoroughly with a paper towel before adding them to your pizza. This simple step ensures that excess moisture is removed, reducing the chances of a soggy pizza. It is a small but vital step in the pizza-making process.
Some recipes also recommend brushing the pizza dough with olive oil before adding the sauce and toppings. This creates a barrier that can further protect the dough from excess moisture. By taking the time to pat dry the pineapple and follow other moisture-reducing tips, you can ensure your Hawaiian pizza is delicious and has the perfect texture.
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Shred your own mozzarella for the best melt
Shredding mozzarella can be a tricky task. Mozzarella is a soft cheese, and unlike harder cheeses, it can be difficult to grate without it falling apart. However, shredding your own mozzarella can make it melt better on your pizza. Pre-shredded cheese often has a coating that makes it harder to melt.
So, how do you shred mozzarella? Well, one simple trick is to place your mozzarella in the freezer for about 15-30 minutes before you need to grate it. This will make the cheese firmer and easier to grate. It will also save you from an intense arm workout!
Once you've shredded your mozzarella, you can use it as a topping for your Hawaiian pizza. Hawaiian pizza is a sweet and savoury combination of pineapple, ham, and cheese. You can also add other toppings such as bacon, chicken, basil, and onion.
To make a Hawaiian pizza, start by preparing your dough. You can make your own dough or use store-bought. If you're making your own, whisk together flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Then, add oil and water to the dry ingredients and stir until well blended. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it's smooth and elastic. Let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes, then stretch and flatten it into a circle. Lift the edges of the dough to create a lip, and pinch the edges to form a rim.
Once your dough is ready, preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 450-475°F. Brush the dough with olive oil and prick it with a fork to prevent bubbling. Add your toppings, starting with the pizza sauce, then the cheese, and finally, the other toppings. Be careful not to overfill your pizza, as this can make it soggy. Bake your pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian pizza with bubbly, melted mozzarella!
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Frequently asked questions
Mozzarella is the standard cheese used on a Hawaiian pizza.
Yes, other cheeses that can be used include cheddar, provolone, gouda, pecorino romano, grana padano, parmigiano reggiano, and asiago stagionato.
Low-moisture whole milk mozzarella shredded from a block is the best option as it melts very well.
Other toppings include pizza sauce, ham, Canadian bacon, and pineapple.
