Dear Guava: I love you in all shapes, forms, textures and physical states. I love your ability to transform into a delectable treat. Who needs Quince paste with Manchego? Slice a thick strip of Guava paste and your Manchego will run away with it, have babies and never look at Quince the same way.
Oh darling Guava, you are the “apple” of my eye. One of my most favorite fruits, you seem to make me smile every time I think about you: you in simple syrup; you in paste form; you liquefied into nectar; you fresh from my backyard tree.
Other than the fact that you are immensely tasty, you are great for my body too! You are an amazing source of dietary fiber, and we all know how that helps our bodies! If I have a cold, I sip on your juice and it actually makes me feel better (Guava disinfects the respiratory system and temporarily relives coughing!). My parents are sorts of hippies when it comes to fruits and their juices, so we’ve always had fresh guava juice. My mother will even slather it on her face, because Guava is an astringent and tightens your skin! Oh and the best part of Guavas? They contain 4-5 times more Vitamin C than Oranges!
Here I’m sharing a simple recipe you can make if you get your hands on fresh, ripe guavas called “Casquitos de Guayaba” (Little Guava Helmets). They are basically guavas, halved and seeded and cooked in a simple syrup with spices.
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| Guavas in Spiced Syrup |
1. Wash, halve and seed the guavas.
2. In a small saucepan, stir your sugar, water, and spices. You can choose from any of your favorite spices, including: vanilla bean, cardamom, allspice, star anise, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, a pinch of salt. Anything you’d love to add is perfect!
3. Add your guavas to the cold liquid and simmer until it is reduced into a simple syrup and the guavas are tender.
Typically served in a small bowl and eaten by itself (chilled), to fully appreciate the flavors; you could also serve them over ice cream, add them to a tart or serve beside a slice of cake. Whatever you decide to do, I’m sure it will be fantastic! Enjoy!
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| Casquitos de Guayaba |
must try this. looks delicious! my in-laws have a guava tree in their backyard, yum! I also love me some guava paste 🙂
This is delicious. Thanks for sharing!
I have only had Guava in a smoothie. I have never just eaten the delicious little fruit. I will find some and try it, and let you know what I thought:-)
Hugs,
Terra
I love these! I used to have them all jarred up but when I tried my mother’s home made version I could never turn back. Great dessert! Thx for the recipe!