Save Experience the tropical allure of homemade Guava Preserves. This luscious, thick jam is the perfect companion for a variety of dishes, from simple morning staples to elegant appetizers. Its sweet and aromatic profile, combined with a delightful texture, captures the essence of fresh, ripe guavas in every spoonful.
Save With a total preparation and cooking time of 1 hour and 20 minutes, this recipe is a rewarding project for any home cook. This international tropical staple yields about 3 cups (750 ml) of vibrant preserves, making it a great way to preserve a bountiful harvest of ripe guavas.
Ingredients
- Fruit: 1.5 kg ripe guavas (about 10–12 medium guavas)
- Sweetener: 700 g granulated sugar (about 3.5 cups)
- Acidity: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Water: 1 cup (240 ml) water
Instructions
- 1
- Wash the guavas thoroughly, then cut them into quarters. Remove seeds using a spoon, reserving as much flesh as possible.
- 2
- Place guava flesh and water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the fruit is soft.
- 3
- Mash the softened guavas with a potato masher or blend briefly for a smoother texture.
- 4
- Press the mixture through a fine sieve or food mill to remove any remaining seeds and obtain a smooth pulp.
- 5
- Return the pulp to the saucepan. Add sugar and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- 6
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- 7
- Reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency (about 35–45 minutes). To test: place a small amount on a chilled plate—if it wrinkles when pushed, its ready.
- 8
- Skim off any foam as needed.
- 9
- Pour the hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving 0.5 cm (¼ inch) headspace. Seal immediately. Let cool and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, or process in a boiling water bath for longer storage.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a large saucepan is essential to prevent boil-overs while the sugar and pulp simmer. To achieve a perfectly clear jam, remember to skim off any foam that rises during the boiling stage. For the best texture, use a sieve or food mill to ensure all seeds are removed after the initial softening.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For those who prefer a more rustic texture, you can reserve some guava pieces and fold them into the sieved pulp for a chunkier preserve. You may also adjust the sugar to your personal taste or substitute a portion of it with honey for a different depth of flavor.
Serviervorschläge
These guava preserves are excellent when served alongside sharp cheeses or used as a filling for delicate pastries. For a sophisticated pairing, serve them with a mild, creamy cheese like brie or enjoy them with a glass of dry Riesling.
Save Once the preserves have cooled and set, you will have a delicious tropical treat ready to enjoy. Whether spread on buttered toast or served as part of a gourmet cheese board, these Guava Preserves bring a bright, sweet flavor to any meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I know when the guava preserves are ready?
The preserves are ready when they reach a jam-like consistency after 35–45 minutes of simmering. To test, place a small amount on a chilled plate—if it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's properly set. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon and sheet off rather than run.
- → Can I use frozen guavas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen guavas work well for making preserves. Thaw them completely before starting, and drain any excess liquid. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as frozen fruit can release more water during the cooking process.
- → How long do homemade guava preserves last?
When stored in sterilized jars in the refrigerator, these preserves will keep for up to 3 months. For longer storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, which creates a shelf-stable seal that can last up to a year in a cool, dark place.
- → Why do I need to remove the guava seeds?
Guava seeds are quite hard and can create an unpleasant texture in preserves. Sieving the cooked fruit through a fine mesh or food mill ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency while removing all seeds. You can reserve some guava pieces before sieving if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- → Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
Sugar acts as both a sweetener and a preservative, helping the preserves set properly. You can reduce it slightly, but using significantly less sugar may affect the consistency and shelf life. If you prefer less sweetness, try using a mix of sugar and honey or use slightly less-ripe guavas which have lower natural sugar content.
- → What's the best way to serve guava preserves?
Guava preserves shine on buttered toast or fresh bread for breakfast. They're also exceptional paired with sharp cheeses like cheddar or goat cheese on charcuterie boards. Use them as a filling for pastries, thumbprint cookies, or swirl into yogurt for a tropical twist. The sweet-tart flavor complements both savory and sweet applications.