Sweet and Spicy Guava Jam
This delightful Sweet and Spicy Guava Jam captures the tropical essence of guavas, blending their natural sweetness with a hint of zest. Perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or using as a topping for desserts, this jam is both versatile and delicious. The recipe harkens back to traditional Southern cooking techniques while ensuring food safety through modern canning methods. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the tropics right in your kitchen, and share this delectable treat with friends and family. Ideal for gifting or preserving the taste of summer all year round.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sugar
4 cups (Granulated)
Water
1 cup (Fresh)
Guavas
5 lbs (Halved, pitted)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves and bring to a boil. Cook until the mixture reaches 238°F, also known as the 'thread stage'.
2
While the syrup is cooking, prepare the guavas by halving them and removing the pits. Place the guava halves in a separate pot and add a small amount of water—just enough to cover the bottom. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the guavas are soft and tender.
3
Once the guavas are soft, pass them through a fine sieve or food mill to remove any remaining solids, creating a smooth guava puree.
4
Add the strained guava puree to the hot sugar syrup and stir to combine. Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency, about 10-20 minutes.
5
To preserve the jam, pour it into hot sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace at the top. Seal the jars with sterilized lids and process them in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and safety.
6
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Store any unopened jars in a cool, dark place and refrigerate once opened.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this guava recipe?
The recipe is for Sweet and Spicy Guava Jam, which captures the tropical essence of guavas with a hint of zest.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
You will need 4 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of fresh water, and 5 lbs of halved and pitted guavas.
How many servings does this recipe produce?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 6 servings or jars.
What temperature should the sugar syrup reach?
The sugar and water mixture should be cooked until it reaches 238°F, which is known as the thread stage.
How do I prepare the guavas for the jam?
Halve the guavas and remove the pits. Cook them in a pot with a small amount of water until they are soft and tender.
How do I create a smooth guava puree?
Once the guavas are soft, pass them through a fine sieve or food mill to remove any remaining solids.
When should I add the guava puree to the sugar syrup?
Add the strained guava puree to the hot sugar syrup once the syrup has reached the thread stage.
How long should the jam mixture cook after combining?
Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat for about 10-20 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
What is the recommended canning method for this jam?
The jam should be processed in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and safety.
How should I prepare the jars for canning?
Pour the jam into hot sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace at the top, and use sterilized lids.
Where should I store unopened jars of guava jam?
Unopened jars should be stored in a cool, dark place.
Does the jam need to be refrigerated?
Yes, once a jar is opened, it must be refrigerated.
What are some ways to serve Sweet and Spicy Guava Jam?
It is perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or using as a topping for various desserts.
Is this recipe suitable for gifting?
Yes, this jam is ideal for gifting or preserving the taste of summer throughout the year.
What type of cooking style does this recipe follow?
The recipe combines traditional Southern cooking techniques with modern food safety and canning methods.
What flavor profile can I expect from this jam?
Expect a vibrant tropical flavor that blends natural sweetness with a hint of zest.
What is the 'thread stage' in sugar cooking?
The thread stage occurs at 238°F when the sugar syrup forms a thin, liquid thread when dropped from a spoon.
How much water is needed to cook the guavas initially?
Use just enough water to cover the bottom of the pot to prevent the guavas from sticking while they soften.
Do I need to remove the pits from the guavas?
Yes, the guavas should be pitted before cooking and then sieved to ensure a smooth texture.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under 'Fruit'.
How long should the jars cool after processing?
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before moving them to storage.
Can I use this jam as a dessert topping?
Absolutely, its tropical flavor makes it an excellent topping for cheesecake, ice cream, or puddings.
What kind of sugar is best for this recipe?
Granulated sugar is recommended for this jam recipe.
What is headspace in canning?
Headspace is the small amount of empty space left at the top of the jar between the food and the lid to allow for expansion.
How many pounds of fruit are required?
This recipe requires 5 pounds of guavas.
Is the water used in the syrup different from the water used for the guavas?
Yes, 1 cup of water is used specifically for the sugar syrup, while a separate small amount is used to soften the guavas.
What ensures the safety and longevity of the jam?
The combination of high sugar content, sterilized equipment, and the boiling water bath process ensures food safety.
Can this recipe be used for tropical-themed gifts?
Yes, its vibrant tropical flavors make it a great choice for themed gift baskets.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include fruit jam, guava, preserves, homemade jam, tropical flavors, and southern cooking.
Is the guava puree strained before or after adding it to the syrup?
The puree is strained first to remove solids and then added to the hot sugar syrup.