Introduction

Guava paste, also known as goiabada, is a beloved sweet treat popular in many Latin American countries. This delectable confection is made by cooking guava fruit with sugar until it thickens into a dense, sliceable paste. Perfect for pairing with cheese, spreading on toast, or enjoying on its own, guava paste recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any kitchen. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the simple process of making your own guava paste recipe at home.

How to Make a Guava Paste Recipe

Ingredients and Directions

Guava Paste Recipe

Course: DessertCuisine: LatinDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minute

Calories

120

kcal

To make guava paste, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 pounds ripe guavas
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Prepare the guavas: Wash the guavas thoroughly and remove any stems or blemishes. Cut the guavas into quarters and place them in a large pot.
Cook the guavas: Add water to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the guavas are soft and tender.
Strain the guava pulp: Pour the cooked guavas through a fine-mesh strainer, pressing the pulp through with a spoon or spatula. Discard the seeds and skins.
Add sugar and lemon juice: Return the strained guava pulp to the pot and add the sugar and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Cook the mixture: Cook the guava mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 20-30 minutes. The mixture will thicken and darken in color as it cooks. To test if the paste is ready, spoon a small amount onto a plate and let it cool. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s done.
Pour and cool: Pour the hot guava paste into a greased 8-inch square baking dish or silicone mold. Allow the paste to cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Slice and serve: Once the guava paste is firm, unmold it and slice it into desired shapes. Serve with cheese, crackers, or enjoy it on its own.

Tips for Success of Guava Paste Recipe

Choose ripe guavas for the best flavor and texture. Ripe guavas should be soft and fragrant.
Adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet paste, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup.
Stir the mixture constantly while cooking to prevent burning and ensure even thickening.
Use a silicone mold for easy unmolding. If using a baking dish, grease it well and line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Variations and Flavor Combinations

Guava paste recipe is a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of flavors. Here are some delicious variations and flavor combinations to try:

Guava and Cheese: Cut the guava paste into small squares and serve alongside slices of your favorite cheese, such as queso fresco, brie, or manchego.
Guava and Cream Cheese: Spread cream cheese on crackers or toast and top with a slice of guava paste for a sweet and tangy appetizer.
Guava and Nuts: Dice the guava paste and mix it with chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, for a crunchy and satisfying snack.
Guava and Chocolate: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over slices of guava paste for a decadent treat that combines fruity and rich flavors.

Storing and Shelf Life

Properly storing your homemade guava paste recipe will help it last longer and maintain its quality. Follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Wrap the guava paste tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 1 month.
Freezing: Cut the guava paste into smaller portions, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the guava paste within a week, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat.

Serving Suggestions

Guava paste recipe is a delightful addition to various dishes and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

Breakfast: Spread guava paste on toast, bagels, or croissants for a sweet and fruity breakfast treat.
Charcuterie Boards: Include cubes of guava paste on a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, cheeses, nuts, and crackers for a stunning appetizer presentation.
Baked Goods: Use guava paste as a filling for pastries, such as empanadas, thumbprint cookies, or filled shortbread.
Cocktails: Muddle a small piece of guava paste in the bottom of a glass before adding your favorite cocktail ingredients, such as rum, lime juice, and mint, for a tropical twist on classic drinks.

With these variations, storage tips, and serving suggestions, you can enjoy your homemade guava paste in countless ways and impress your friends and family with your culinary creativity.

Conclusion

Making your own guava paste recipe at home is a simple and rewarding process that yields a delicious treat you can enjoy in countless ways. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a sweet, fruity confection that rivals any store-bought version. Give this recipe a try and savor the authentic taste of homemade guava paste recipe.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making guava paste, share your experience with us in the comments below. Did you add any unique twists to the recipe? What’s your favorite way to enjoy this delightful treat? We’d love to hear from you!

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