Guava, with its sweet aroma and tangy flavor, is a tropical delight that can be enjoyed in many forms. One particularly delightful way to savor guava is by making homemade guava jam.

This recipe captures the essence of fresh guavas in a spreadable form that can be enjoyed on toast, paired with cheeses, or even used in desserts. Lykkers, here’s how you can create your own batch of guava jam:

Ingredients:

• 1 kg ripe guavas

• 500g granulated sugar (adjust according to sweetness of guavas)

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Guavas:

• Wash the guavas thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.

• Cut each guava in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. The seeds are edible but can impart a slightly bitter taste to the jam.

2. Cook the Guavas:

• Dice the cleaned guava halves into small pieces and place them in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan.

• Add enough water to just cover the guava pieces.

• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the guavas are soft and pulpy.

3. Add Sugar and Lemon Juice:

• Once the guavas are soft, add the granulated sugar and lemon juice to the saucepan.

• Stir well to combine and dissolve the sugar completely.

4. Cook Until Thickened:

• Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

• Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the jam thickens to your desired consistency. To test if it's ready, place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it's done.

5. Optional: Add Vanilla Extract:

• If desired, stir in the vanilla extract at this stage for added flavor.

6. Prepare for Storage:

• Once the jam reaches the desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat.

• Let the jam cool slightly before pouring it into clean, sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly.

7. Enjoy Your Guava Jam:

• Once completely cooled, store the jars in the refrigerator. The jam can be kept for several weeks.

• Serve your homemade guava jam on toast, with scones, or as a delightful topping for yogurt or ice cream.

Homemade guava jam is not only a delicious way to enjoy the tropical flavor of guavas but also a wonderful gift idea for friends and family. Experiment with different variations by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for a unique twist.

With its vibrant color and irresistible taste, this guava jam recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.