More than just a spread, guava jam is a slice of sunshine captured in a jar. Known for its tropical origins and vibrant flavor, Guava Jam is a beloved staple in many Latin American and Caribbean kitchens. Its sweet, floral notes make it a delicious accompaniment to toast, cheese, and baked goods. If you’re craving a taste of home or want to explore something new, making guava jam is a flavorful and fulfilling experience.
What is Guava Jam?
Guava jam is a thick, smooth conserve made from ripe guavas, sugar, and citrus juice. Unlike jelly, which is made only from juice, jam contains the pulp of the fruit, giving it a richer texture and fuller flavor. The flavor is sweet with a slightly tangy finish, and the aroma is unmistakably tropical. It’s often used in pastries, breakfast spreads, and as a flavorful accent to savory dishes.
Ingredients you’ll need for guava jam
To make guava jam at home, all you need are a few fresh ingredients:
- Ripe guavas (around 2 pounds)
- 2 cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lemon or lime (for acidity and natural pectin)
- Water (as needed, for simmering)
Optional: A cinnamon stick for added warmth or spice.
Tip: Choose guavas that are soft to the touch and fragrant – these are the sweetest and easiest to work with.
Step-by-step Guava Jam Recipe
- Prepare the fruit: Wash the guavas thoroughly. Quarter them, leaving the seeds in.
- Boil and soften: Place the guavas in a saucepan with just enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the fruit is soft.
- Blend and strain: Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree. For a smoother jam, strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds.
- Cook with sugar: Return the strained pulp to the saucepan. Add sugar and lemon juice. Stir to dissolve, then bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the jam: Stir frequently and cook until the mixture thickens – this may take 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon or passes the cold plate test.
- Cool and store: Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring to clean jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or follow proper canning procedures for long-term storage.
How to store and preserve guava jam
If you’re making a small batch, it’s easy and effective to store in the refrigerator. Just pour the cooled jam into airtight glass jars and keep them cool. For longer storage, you can use water bath canning. Be sure to sterilize jars and lids beforehand and follow recommended safety guidelines to prevent spoilage.
Creative ways to use guava jam
Guava jam isn’t just for toast. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Stir it into yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity boost.
- Use it as a glaze for roast pork or chicken.
- Add it as a layer in cakes or cupcakes.
- Fill thumbprint cookies or sandwich it between shortbread cookies.
- Stir it into cream cheese for a quick dip.
Its balance of sweet and tangy makes it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory recipes.
Cuban flavors and guava traditions
In Cuban cuisine, guava plays a central role in sweets and snacks. It’s often paired with cheese for a contrast of sweet and salty, and appears in pastelitos, turnovers, and desserts. Using guava in the kitchen is a way to preserve both flavor and culture – turning a tropical fruit into something that can be shared at the table any time of year.
Cortadito Coffee House: A taste of guava in Miam and Las Vegas
For those who want to enjoy guava in authentic Cuban treats, Cortadito Coffee House in Miami and Las Vegas offers a delicious selection:
- Pastelito: A flaky pastry filled with sweet guava or the popular guava and cheese combo.
- Alfajores de Guava: A delicate twist on the classic cookie with a smooth guava filling.
- Guava Bread: Soft and moist, this loaf-like dessert showcases the fruit’s flavor in every bite.
Each dish reflects the comfort and nostalgia that guava brings to Cuban cuisine, making Cortadito Coffee House a destination for those seeking the real thing.
Make it your own: guava jam variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can get creative:
- Add chili flakes or jalapeño for a spicy jam.
- Mix in vanilla extract for a dessert-like flavor.
- Combine with mango or passion fruit for a tropical blend.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
These variations can be tailored to your taste or to complement your favorite dishes.
Making guava jam at home is an easy and rewarding way to bring a vibrant tropical flavor to your kitchen. With just a few ingredients, you can create a jam that’s perfect for spreading, baking, or sharing. And if you’re in Miami or Las Vegas, a visit to Cortadito Coffee House offers even more guava-filled inspiration – from pastelitos to guava bread, every bite is a celebration of tradition and taste.
