Homemade Guava Paste
A luscious, ruby-hued guava paste that captures the essence of tropical guavas in a rich, concentrated form. Perfect for pairing with cheeses, spreading on toast, or enhancing pastries, this homemade delight is a sweet testament to culinary craftsmanship.
Ingredients
- 4 cups ripe guavas pink-fleshed variety recommended
- 2 cups sugar adjust based on sweetness of guavas
- 1 cup water
- Juice of 1 lemon optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or cinnamon optional, for added flavor
Instructions
- Prep the Guavas: Wash and peel the guavas. Cut in half, scoop out the seeds, and strain them to collect the juice. Blend the flesh until smooth.
- Cook: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, mix the guava pulp, sugar, and water. Add lemon juice and vanilla extract or cinnamon if using. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking or burning.
- Consistency Check: Once the mixture thickens and darkens in color, test for readiness by spreading a small amount on a plate. If it wrinkles when nudged, it’s ready.
- Cool and Set: Pour the hot guava paste into a shallow dish lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top with a spatula and let it cool at room temperature. Once set, cut into desired shapes.
Notes
- Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the guavas and personal preference.
- The optional addition of lemon juice adds a slight tang, enhancing the guava's natural flavors.
- Vanilla or cinnamon can introduce a subtle depth to the paste's flavor profile.
