Debunking the myth: is hawaiian pizza really canadian?
What To Know
- In Canada, it is often seen as a classic pizza topping, while in Hawaii, it is considered a local favorite.
- Ultimately, the question of whether Hawaiian pizza is Canadian or Hawaiian is a matter of taste and opinion.
- Yes, Hawaiian pizza is a popular dish in Hawaii, although it is not considered a traditional Hawaiian food.
The origin of Hawaiian pizza is a subject of culinary controversy, with both Canada and Hawaii claiming its creation. The dish, featuring a pineapple and ham topping, first appeared in the 1960s.
The Canadian Claim
In Canada, the town of Chatham, Ontario, lays claim to the invention of Hawaiian pizza. Sam Panopoulos, a Greek immigrant and owner of the Satellite Restaurant, is credited with creating the dish in 1962. Panopoulos experimented with various toppings, including pineapple, ham, and bacon, and named the resulting pizza “Hawaiian” after the canned pineapple he used.
The Hawaiian Claim
Hawaii also has a stake in the Hawaiian pizza debate. In the 1950s, Hawaiian restaurateur Rose Vicari is said to have created a similar pizza with pineapple and bacon. However, this dish was not widely known until the 1970s.
Evidence and Speculation
The evidence supporting the Canadian claim is stronger than the Hawaiian claim. Panopoulos’s account is well-documented, and his restaurant continues to operate in Chatham. Additionally, Canadian pizza chains were serving Hawaiian pizza in the 1960s, before it became popular in Hawaii.
Cultural Significance
Regardless of its true origin, Hawaiian pizza has become a popular dish in both Canada and Hawaii. In Canada, it is often seen as a classic pizza topping, while in Hawaii, it is considered a local favorite.
The Debate Continues
Despite the evidence pointing towards Canada, the debate over the origin of Hawaiian pizza continues. Some believe that Hawaii’s claim is simply a marketing ploy to capitalize on the dish’s popularity. Others argue that the Hawaiian version, with bacon instead of ham, is the true original.
Regional Variations
Over the years, Hawaiian pizza has undergone regional variations. In some areas, it is made with pineapple and bacon, while in others, it includes ham or both ham and bacon. The crust can also vary, from thin and crispy to thick and fluffy.
Culinary Controversies
Hawaiian pizza is not the only dish that has sparked culinary controversies. Other debated foods include:
- Chicago deep-dish pizza: Is it a pizza or a casserole?
- French fries: Are they French or Belgian?
- Tacos: Are they Mexican or American?
Takeaways: A Matter of Taste
Ultimately, the question of whether Hawaiian pizza is Canadian or Hawaiian is a matter of taste and opinion. Both countries have a valid claim to its creation, and the dish has become a beloved part of both cultures. The next time you order a Hawaiian pizza, take a moment to appreciate the culinary journey that led to its creation.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Who invented Hawaiian pizza?
A: Sam Panopoulos in Chatham, Ontario, is credited with creating Hawaiian pizza in 1962.
Q: Is Hawaiian pizza popular in Hawaii?
A: Yes, Hawaiian pizza is a popular dish in Hawaii, although it is not considered a traditional Hawaiian food.
Q: What is the difference between Canadian and Hawaiian Hawaiian pizza?
A: The Canadian version typically uses ham, while the Hawaiian version often uses bacon.
