The Famous Pineapple on Pizza Debate
In the culinary world, no food stirs opposing opinions like Hawaiian Pizza. Does pineapple belong on pizza? With ham, bacon, pineapple, cheese, and tomato sauce on the dough as toppings, the Hawaiian Pizza divides people like no other dish.
Some people are incredibly passionate about it, and others loathe it. Based on a survey of approximately 32,000 people worldwide, Mashed investigated what toppings people enjoyed on their pizza.
Pepperoni won with 51% of the votes, but pineapple garnered a surprising number of fans, with about 11% choosing it as their top choice. Pineapple wasn’t far behind sausage (15%) or mushrooms (13%).
Combining sweet and savory foods is not uncommon. Many people enjoy the sweetness of pineapple and the saltiness of cheese and sauce on pizza. So why are pineapples so controversial on pizza? Let’s explore below.
Pineapple on Pizza Debate
It all began in 1962 when Sam Panopoulos was looking for a way to attract more customers to his pizza joint in Ontario, Canada. Panopoulos first paired sweet pineapple with savory ham as an experiment, but people loved the contrast, and he eventually called it the Hawaiian Pizza.
Science Backs Pineapples on Pizza
First, scientific evidence proves that pineapple belongs on pizza. Pizza is a salty snack that is made better with a little bit of sweetness. With pineapple, the flavor profile gets a much-needed sweetness boost.
Pineapples Have Health Benefits
Secondly, pineapples have numerous health benefits. They contain Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These vitamins and minerals help your body to:
- Lower your blood pressure
- Improve digestion
Keep your body healthy with a Hawaiian Pizza from all the pineapple nutrients.
Hawaiian Pizza is “Healthier”
Finally, let’s be honest. Nothing is better than chowing down on a few pizza slices only to regret the decision several hours later. But on the bright side, pineapples and tomatoes are both fruits. Then it makes sense that adding pineapples would be a little “healthy” fruit snack. It’s not only tasty, but Hawaiian pizza is also healthier.
Now you can enjoy that extra slice of pizza a little more guilt-free.
Why Pineapple Doesn’t Belong on Pizza
It’s so easy to take this side. It’s undoubtedly the right side of history to be on if Gordon Ramsay, the master to please in “Hell’s Kitchen,” says pineapple doesn’t belong on pizza. Certain flavors and textures are not for everyone, and certainly, if you are allergic to pineapple, this would not be the topping for you.
Tomatoes and Pineapples are Both Acidic
The pineapple is an acidic fruit, just like tomatoes. If you combine the two, you may experience stomach upset from the acidity.
Soggy Pizza, Anyone?
Pineapple chunks are preserved in juice; no matter how much straining you do, some pineapple juice will remain. The juice seeps into the dough and crust, making them soggy. Nobody likes soggy pizza.
Pineapple May Mask Other Flavors
No doubt pineapple has a robust flavor, no matter which side you’re on. While pineapple slices are tasty, they don’t make a delicious pizza topping. Your cheese and other toppings may be unnoticeable because, with a strong pineapple flavor, you risk masking all the different flavors.
Is Pineapple a Good Choice for Pizza Topping?
There has been controversy over pineapple on pizza for 60 years, and it is unlikely to change anytime soon. In the end, pizza toppings are a matter of personal preference. Although we may disagree on some things, pizza will always be there when you need it. Order one now!
Never forget there could be worse things than pineapple on pizza. Vegetables on pizza, maybe?