Luscious Thick Guava Preserves (Printable)

A luscious, thick tropical spread perfect for toast, cheese pairings, or desserts.

# What You Need:

→ Fruit

01 - 3.3 lbs ripe guavas (about 10-12 medium guavas)

→ Sweetener

02 - 3.5 cups granulated sugar

→ Acidity

03 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

→ Water

04 - 1 cup water

# How-To:

01 - Wash guavas thoroughly and cut into quarters. Remove seeds using a spoon, reserving as much flesh as possible.
02 - Place guava flesh and water in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until fruit is soft.
03 - Mash softened guavas with a potato masher or blend briefly for smoother texture.
04 - Press mixture through a fine sieve or food mill to remove remaining seeds and obtain smooth pulp.
05 - Return pulp to saucepan. Add sugar and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
06 - Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
07 - Reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring frequently, until mixture thickens to jam-like consistency (about 35-45 minutes). Test by placing small amount on chilled plate—if it wrinkles when pushed, it's ready.
08 - Skim off any foam as needed during cooking.
09 - Pour hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Seal immediately. Cool and store in refrigerator for up to 3 months, or process in boiling water bath for longer storage.

# Expert Hacks:

01 -
  • The texture transforms from glossy and pourable to a luscious, spreadable consistency that clings perfectly to bread
  • Your entire kitchen will fill with the most incredible tropical perfume that lingers for hours
02 -
  • The wrinkle test is your best friend—drop a spoonful of hot preserves onto a cold plate and push it with your finger, if it wrinkles up like a little wave, its done
  • Guava preserves thicken considerably as they cool, so do not be alarmed if the mixture seems slightly loose in the pot
03 -
  • If you want some texture, fold in reserved chunks of guava after the sieving step
  • A splash of vanilla extract added in the final five minutes of cooking creates an even more complex flavor profile
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