Do you ever find yourself craving the perfect slice of ham-topped pizza, but unsure which ham will take it to the next level? Look no further! We’re here to guide you on your mouthwatering journey to ranking the best ham for pizza.
From the Italian elegance of Prosciutto to the smoky allure of Black Forest Ham, we’ll delve into each ham’s description, taste, and tips and tricks for the perfect pairing. But wait, there’s more! We’ll also answer your burning questions about storing and using ham, suggest vegetarian alternatives, and share creative ideas to make your pizza healthier and more delightful. So, whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or simply craving a delicious slice, join us on this ham-filled adventure!
1. Prosciutto
Description
Prosciutto, oh, how I love thee! This Italian dry-cured ham has won my heart with its delicate and velvety texture. It’s made from the finest pork legs, carefully salted and air-dried to perfection. The result is a thin, rosy-pink slice that’s both savory and slightly sweet.
Taste
One bite of prosciutto on a pizza, and you’ll be transported to foodie paradise. Its rich and buttery taste complements the pizza’s flavors, adding a luxurious touch to each bite. The saltiness of prosciutto balances the cheese and vegetables, creating a delightful harmony of flavors in every mouthful.
Tips and Tricks
- Simplicity is Key: To truly appreciate the taste of prosciutto, keep your pizza toppings simple. Pair it with a light tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and maybe some arugula. Let the prosciutto shine!
- Add After Baking: Prosciutto is best enjoyed when added to the pizza after it’s baked. This way, it retains its delicate texture and doesn’t become tough or chewy.
- Don’t Overload: Prosciutto is so flavorful that a little goes a long way. Avoid overloading your pizza with too much prosciutto; a few carefully placed slices will do the trick.
2. Speck
Description
Ah, speck! The cousin of prosciutto, hailing from the beautiful alpine regions of Italy and Austria. Speck is made from pork legs that are seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then slowly smoked to infuse a unique and irresistible flavor.
Taste
Speck brings a smoky and robust character to pizza, making it a favorite among those who crave a more intense taste. Its smokiness pairs wonderfully with various pizza styles, adding depth to each bite. The contrast between the crispy edges and the tender meat is simply divine.
Tips and Tricks
- Thin Slices are Best: Since speck has a bold flavor, slicing it thinly ensures that it’s distributed evenly across the pizza. This way, you get a burst of flavor in every slice.
- Experiment with Cheese: Speck works wonders with different cheese types. Try it with smoked gouda, fontina, or even a mix of mozzarella and provolone for an extra cheesy delight.
- Pair with Vegetables: The smokiness of speck pairs exceptionally well with roasted vegetables like artichokes, bell peppers, or zucchini. It creates a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.
3. Cooked Ham
Description
Cooked ham, a classic choice for pizza lovers everywhere. This ham is made from fresh pork, brined or cured, and then cooked to perfection. The result is a tender and juicy ham with a mild and familiar flavor.
Taste
When it comes to comfort, cooked ham is the way to go. Its mild taste appeals to almost everyone, making it a crowd-pleaser on pizzas. It pairs wonderfully with various toppings, making it a versatile option for your pizza creations.
Tips and Tricks
- Go for Thickness: Opt for thicker slices of cooked ham to add a meaty and satisfying element to your pizza. Thinly sliced ham might get lost among the other toppings.
- Pre-cook or Add Later: Since cooked ham is already tender, you can add it directly to your pizza before baking or cook it separately and add it after for a smoky flavor twist.
- Balance the Flavors: Because cooked ham is mild, consider combining it with stronger flavors like pineapple, red onions, or barbecue sauce for a sweet and savory delight.
4. Cotto Ham
Description
Cotto ham, or prosciutto cotto, is another Italian favorite that deserves a spot on your pizza. This ham is brined, seasoned, and slowly cooked to achieve a delicate and delightful taste.
Taste
Cotto ham offers a delightful balance between the saltiness of prosciutto and the milder flavor of cooked ham. Its tenderness and moistness make it an excellent choice for adding a luxurious touch to your pizza.
Tips and Tricks
- Pair with Creamy Cheese: Cotto ham goes exceptionally well with creamy cheeses like ricotta or creamy mozzarella. The combination creates a luscious and indulgent pizza experience.
- Try a Fig Spread: For a gourmet twist, spread some fig jam or fig spread on your pizza dough before adding the cotto ham. The sweetness of figs complements the ham’s savory notes.
- Add Fresh Greens: After baking, top your cotto ham pizza with fresh arugula or baby spinach. The peppery greens add a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the ham.
5. Jamón Serrano
Description
Ah, Jamón Serrano, the pride of Spain. This dry-cured ham comes from white pigs and is aged for an extended period, giving it a distinctive and robust flavor. The name “Serrano” comes from the Spanish word for mountain, as this ham was traditionally cured in the cool mountain air.
Taste
Jamón Serrano brings a touch of Spanish flair to your pizza. Its deep, savory taste with hints of nuttiness and saltiness will transport you to the rustic landscapes of Spain with every bite. The texture is firm yet tender, making it a delight to savor.
Tips and Tricks
- Thin Slices are Essential: Jamón Serrano is best enjoyed when thinly sliced. Its intense flavor is more pronounced when the slices are delicate and almost melt in your mouth.
- Paprika Power: For an authentic Spanish experience, sprinkle some Spanish paprika on your pizza with Jamón Serrano. The smoky notes of paprika complement the ham wonderfully.
- Manchego Magic: Pair your Jamón Serrano pizza with some grated Manchego cheese. The combination of these two Spanish delights will take your taste buds on a delightful journey.
6. Jamón Ibérico
Description
The pinnacle of ham luxury, Jamón Ibérico, is the crown jewel of Spanish cuisine. Produced from the renowned black Iberian pigs, this ham undergoes a lengthy curing process, resulting in a complex and exquisite flavor profile.
Taste
Jamón Ibérico is a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship. Its rich, nutty, and almost sweet taste will leave you speechless. The marbling of fat within the meat adds a luxurious buttery texture that melts in your mouth.
Tips and Tricks
- Savor it Alone: To truly appreciate the magnificence of Jamón Ibérico, consider enjoying it alone on a pizza with minimal toppings. Allow its flavor to take center stage.
- Handle with Care: This ham is a delicacy, so handle it with care. Lay the thin slices gently on your pizza to preserve their delicate texture.
- Aged Cheese Affair: Jamón Ibérico pairs beautifully with aged cheeses like Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano. The combination of flavors will leave you in awe.
7. Black Forest Ham
Description
Black Forest ham, originating from the Black Forest region in Germany, is a true treat for ham enthusiasts. This ham is made from pork that’s traditionally seasoned with a blend of herbs, spices, and juniper berries. It is then slowly smoked over pine wood, infusing it with a unique and delightful flavor.
Taste
One bite of Black Forest ham on your pizza, and you’ll be hooked! Its smoky and slightly sweet taste sets it apart from other hams. The juniper berries add a pleasant earthy note, making it an unforgettable addition to your pizza.
Tips and Tricks
- Embrace the Smokiness: Black Forest ham is all about the smoky flavor, so embrace it! Pair it with ingredients like caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, or even some grilled pineapple for a sweet and smoky combination.
- Consider Sauerkraut: For a German-inspired twist, add some sauerkraut to your pizza along with the Black Forest ham. The tangy sauerkraut balances the richness of the ham and adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Thin and Crispy: To fully enjoy the flavors of Black Forest ham, ensure your pizza crust is thin and crispy. The delicate ham won’t overpower the other toppings, and you’ll get a perfect balance in every bite.
Final Thoughts
Ham has proven to be a versatile and delightful topping. From the velvety and savory notes of Prosciutto to the smoky and luxurious flavors of Jamón Ibérico, each ham brings its unique character to the table. It all comes down to personal preference and the kind of taste adventure you seek.
When choosing the best ham for your pizza, consider the overall flavor profile you want to achieve. If you crave a more delicate and balanced taste, Prosciutto or Cooked Ham might be the way to go. Their mild flavors blend harmoniously with various toppings, making them crowd-pleasers.
On the other hand, for those who love bold and intense flavors, options like Jamón Serrano, Jamón Ibérico, and Black Forest Ham are perfect choices. Their distinctive tastes add depth and richness to your pizza, taking it to a whole new level of indulgence.
In the end, pizza is all about experimenting and finding the combinations that excite your taste buds. Whether you prefer the classic simplicity of Prosciutto and Mozzarella or the gourmet allure of Jamón Ibérico with aged cheese, there’s no wrong way to enjoy your pizza. So, have fun exploring the world of ham-topped pizzas, and let your culinary journey lead you to a delicious and satisfying destination!
FAQ
Q: Can I use different hams on the same pizza?
Absolutely! One of the joys of pizza-making is the freedom to mix and match toppings according to your taste preferences. Combining different hams can create exciting flavor combinations that tantalize your taste buds. Consider a pizza with a base of Prosciutto, then add some slices of smoky Jamón Serrano or Black Forest Ham for an intriguing contrast. Get creative and let your palate guide you!
Q: How do I store leftover ham for future pizzas?
Storing leftover ham properly ensures it remains fresh for your next pizza adventure. If the ham is unopened, you can keep it in its original packaging and place it in the refrigerator. Once opened, wrap the ham in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to label it with the date, so you know when it was opened. Properly stored, cooked ham can last for about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator, while cured hams like Prosciutto or Jamón Ibérico can last up to a few weeks.
Q: Can I freeze ham to use later?
Yes, you can freeze ham to extend its shelf life. Before freezing, ensure the ham is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. For cooked ham, slice it or cut it into portions that are easy to use later. For cured hams like Prosciutto or Jamón Ibérico, you can freeze the whole piece or slice it thinly and separate the slices with parchment paper. When you’re ready to use the frozen ham, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding it to your pizza.
Q: How can I make my ham-topped pizza healthier?
To make your ham-topped pizza a bit healthier, consider some simple swaps and adjustments. Start with the crust – opt for a whole-grain or cauliflower crust for added nutrients and fewer carbs. Use a light tomato sauce or even a thin layer of olive oil instead of heavy, calorie-laden sauces. Load up your pizza with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and mushrooms for added vitamins and fiber. Additionally, consider reducing the amount of cheese and adding more protein-rich toppings like chicken or turkey ham. With these tweaks, you can still enjoy your ham-topped pizza guilt-free!
Q: Are there any vegetarian alternatives to ham for pizza?
Absolutely! If you or your loved ones prefer a vegetarian option, there are plenty of delicious alternatives to ham. You can use plant-based hams made from ingredients like tofu, seitan, or jackfruit, which mimic the texture and taste of traditional ham. Alternatively, roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or portobello mushrooms can add a meaty and flavorful element to your pizza. Experiment with different combinations of vegetarian toppings to find the perfect meat-free pizza for you.
Q: Can I use ham as a pizza topping for other dishes?
Certainly! Ham is a versatile ingredient that can elevate various dishes beyond pizza. You can use it in omelets or frittatas for a hearty breakfast, add it to sandwiches or wraps for a satisfying lunch, or toss it into pasta salads for a quick and delicious dinner. Ham’s savory and salty taste complements a wide range of flavors, making it a great addition to your culinary repertoire.
With these FAQs answered, you’re all set to embark on your ham-topped pizza adventures! The world of pizza-making is full of possibilities, and ham is just one of the many delicious toppings waiting to be explored. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of a freshly baked ham-topped pizza fill your kitchen. Enjoy!