Pizza transcends cultures and cuisines, evolving with each region’s unique flavors and ingredients. Among the galaxy of toppings, ham stands out for its savory depth, adding a dimension of taste that complements the gooey cheese and tangy tomato sauce.
However, not all of them are created equal, especially when topping a pizza. Let’s delve into the world of ham to understand what varieties best elevate this beloved dish.
The Classic: Traditional Ham
Traditional ham, often cooked, is the most common type used in pizzerias worldwide. This food is typically brined and smoked, offering a mildly salty and smoky flavor. Its delicate texture and ability to blend seamlessly with other toppings make it a go-to choice for classic ham and pineapple pizzas, also known as the Hawaiian.
Source: https://fooby.ch/en/recipes
Going Italian: Prosciutto
Prosciutto, Italy’s pride in the world of ham, brings a more sophisticated twist to pizza. Cured for months or years, this ham exudes a complex bouquet of flavors – sweet, salty, and nutty. Prosciutto is usually draped over the after baking, allowing its thin slices to warm slightly and soften atop the hot surface. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture makes prosciutto-topped pizza a gourmet choice.
A Spanish Delight: Serrano Ham
Like prosciutto, Serrano boasts a longer curing process, imbuing it with a more intense flavor profile. This Spanish ham adds a bold, savory punch, harmonizing wonderfully with arugula, figs, and cheeses of a stronger character, such as Manchego. Its dry and slightly chewy texture gives the pizza an added layer of sophistication.
The French Touch: Jambon de Paris
Jambon de Paris is a French-style cooked ham known for its exceptionally tender and lean qualities. Unlike its Italian and Spanish counterparts, it undergoes a mild smoking process, if at all, resulting in a subtle flavor that doesn’t overpower other toppings.
When used on pizza, Jambon de Paris offers a refined taste suitable for those who prefer their pizza toppings not to steal the show.
The German Specialty: Black Forest Ham
Originating from Germany, this food is a must-try for those who enjoy a deeper smoky flavor. The name is after the Black Forest region, where it is traditionally produced, and it undergoes a process of salting, curing, and thoroughly smoking.
This variety of ham adds a rich and robust flavor to pizzas, making it ideal for pairings with milder ingredients like mushrooms or mozzarella to balance the palate.
The American Choice: Honey Ham
For a touch of sweetness, this offers an intriguing option. This ham is coated with honey during the curing and smoking processes, creating a sweet-savory flavor profile perfect for those who enjoy a contrast in their pizza toppings. This dish pairs splendidly with spicy ingredients like jalapenos or sharp cheese, providing a delightful taste sensation.
Conclusion
The world of ham brings an eclectic array of flavors and textures to the pizza experience, transcending geographical and culinary boundaries. Whether opting for the mild and smoky traditional, the sophisticated and savory prosciutto, or the sweet notes of honey ham, each variety offers its unique charm.
Exploring these different types expands the culinary palette and celebrates the universal love for this timeless dish. Ultimately, the best ham for your pizza boils down to personal preference and the adventurous spirit of combining flavors to achieve gastronomic delight.
Hey there, pizza and wings lovers! Welcome to Jonathan’s, the ultimate destination for delicious, mouth-watering pizzas and crispy, flavorful wings. At Jonathan’s, we’re all about serving up the most delectable pizzas and wings that will leave you craving for more.
Join us on this journey as we take you through the art of crafting the perfect pizza, the sizzle of our mouthwatering wings, and the passion we pour into every dish we serve. Get ready to indulge in a visual feast of cheesy, saucy goodness and crispy, flavorful perfection.