Best Easy Guava Jam Recipe Hawaii
Hawaii, often referred to as the paradise of the Pacific, is not only known for its stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes but also for its delectable tropical fruits. One of the most beloved fruits in Hawaii is the guava. With its fragrant aroma and sweet-tart flavor, guava is a favorite ingredient in many Hawaiian dishes. One of the best ways to enjoy the taste of guava is through homemade guava jam. Here is a simple and delicious guava jam recipe that will transport you straight to the tropical paradise of Hawaii.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups guava, ripe and mashed
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the guava. Wash the guava thoroughly and cut off the ends. Slice the guava into halves and scoop out the flesh using a spoon. Discard the seeds and transfer the guava flesh into a large bowl.
2. Mash the guava flesh using a fork or a potato masher until it reaches a smooth consistency. Measure out 4 cups of mashed guava and set it aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the mashed guava, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed throughout the guava mixture.
4. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent the guava from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
5. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
6. After an hour of simmering, the guava jam should have thickened significantly. To test its readiness, place a small amount of the jam onto a chilled plate. If it sets and wrinkles when touched, it is ready. If not, continue simmering for a few more minutes and repeat the test.
7. Once the guava jam reaches the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the jam.
8. Allow the guava jam to cool slightly before transferring it into sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool completely before storing them in the refrigerator.
Now that you have mastered the art of making guava jam, it’s time to enjoy your tropical creation. Spread the jam generously on toast, scones, or even use it as a filling for pastries. The possibilities are endless!
Q&A:
1. Can I use frozen guava instead of fresh guava?
Yes, you can use frozen guava if fresh guava is not available. Just make sure to thaw the frozen guava before mashing it.
2. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar according to your preference. However, keep in mind that sugar acts as a natural preservative in jams, so reducing it too much may affect the shelf life of the jam.
3. How long can I store the guava jam?
When stored properly in sterilized jars, guava jam can last for up to 6 months in the refrigerator.
4. Can I add other fruits to the guava jam?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment by adding other tropical fruits like pineapple or mango to the guava jam for a unique flavor combination.
5. Can I use this recipe to make guava jelly instead of jam?
Yes, you can use the same recipe to make guava jelly. Simply strain the cooked guava mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before transferring it into jars.
6. Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch of guava jam?
Yes, you can double or even triple the recipe to make a larger batch of guava jam. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
7. Is this recipe suitable for canning?
This recipe is not specifically designed for canning. If you want to can the guava jam for long-term storage, it is recommended to follow proper canning procedures and guidelines.