Caribbean Homemade Guava Jam

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Having three full guava trees at home in Trinidad, we always had a lot of guava when it was in season.

We’d make guava juice to cool off on a hot day, snack on guava chow with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or enjoy the fruit as it was, sweet and tangy.

But the highlight of guava season was always homemade guava jam. Its rich flavor and vibrant color made it the perfect spread for a slice of freshly baked bread or crackers.

Making guava jam at home wasn’t just about enjoying the taste; it was a way to preserve the fruit and savor a piece of the season long after the guavas were gone.

What is Guava?

Guava is a tropical fruit widely loved for its unique taste and nutritional benefits.

It has a soft, fragrant aroma and a sweet flavor with just a hint of tartness. The fruit can range from green to yellow on the outside, and its flesh can be white, pink, or deep red, depending on the variety.

Guava has vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants making it good for you. In the Caribbean, guava holds a special place in our hearts and kitchens, as it’s a staple ingredient in many recipes.

Where Can You Find Guava?

Guava thrive in the warm climate and are a common sight in gardens.

For those who don’t have a tree, guavas are easily available at local markets, especially during the peak season.

They are an affordable and versatile fruit you can turn into treats, including jam.

My Mom Homemade Guava Jam Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of ripe guavas
• 2 cups of water
• 2 cups of sugar
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 Glove

Instructions:

Prepare the Guavas: Wash the guavas thoroughly. Cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size, and remove the seeds. You can do this by scooping them out with a spoon. Set the fruit flesh aside.

Cook the Guavas: Place the guava flesh in a pot. Add the water, glove and the bay leaf. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the guavas are soft and break apart easily.

Blend and Strain: Let the cooked guavas cool slightly, then blend them into a smooth puree. Use a fine strainer or cheesecloth to strain the puree into a bowl, removing any remaining pulp or fibers. This step ensures your jam has a smooth texture.

Cook the Jam: Pour the strained puree back into the pot and add the sugar and lime juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. This can take 20-30 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Check for Doneness: To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. Let it cool for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run, your jam is done.

Bottle the Jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, store them in the refrigerator.

Storing Your Guava Jam

You can store homemade guava in the refrigerator for up to three months, as long as the jars are sealed properly.

If you’ve made a larger batch, you can freeze the jam in airtight containers for up to six months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it in the fridge and enjoy.

Always use a clean spoon when scooping out jam to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.

FAQ

1. Can I use unripe guavas for jam?
While it’s best to use ripe guavas for jam because they’re sweeter and have a more intense flavor, you can mix in a few slightly unripe ones if needed. Just adjust the sugar to taste.

2. Do I need to use lime juice?
Yes, lime juice adds a hint of tanginess that balances the sweetness of the jam. It also helps the jam set properly by interacting with the natural pectin in the guavas.

3. What can I do if my jam doesn’t set?
If your jam is too runny, you can return it to the pot and cook it a little longer. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.

4. How can I sterilize jars for jam?
To sterilize jars, wash them thoroughly and boil them in water for 10 minutes. Let them air dry on a clean towel before filling them with hot jam.

5. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that it acts as a preservative and helps the jam set. If you use less sugar, the jam may not last as long and could be softer in texture.

There’s something about turning simple ingredients into something as delightful as guava jam. It’s a labor of love that captures the flavors of the Caribbean in every spoonful.

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