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Guava Paste

Guava paste, also known as "pasta de guayaba" in Spanish, is a sweet, thick, and flavorful fruit preserve made from guavas. This popular Latin American and Caribbean delicacy is enjoyed for its aromatic and rich taste, often paired with cheese or used as a filling in pastries and desserts. High in natural sugars and pectin, guava paste has a dense texture similar to a fruit jelly, though it is usually formed into blocks or bars. Home cooks and consumers can utilize guava paste in a variety of dishes to add sweetness and depth of flavor. As a versatile ingredient, it can be used in sweet or savory dishes, ranging from cocktail snacks like guava and cheese pastelitos, to more complex dishes like slow-cooked meats with a guava-based sauce. The fusion of its distinct tropical taste with other ingredients often results in a delightful sensory experience.
#25
IN JELLIES & JAM
280
CAL / 100G
$0.12
AVG / OZ
guava paste
99%
CARBS
0%
FAT
0%
PROTEIN
Guava Paste FAQ
Cooking with guava paste can be a delightful experience but can also raise some questions, especially for beginners. People often wonder about the best ways to use guava paste, how to balance its unique taste with other flavors, or how to fit it into their dietary restrictions. Guava paste is very sweet, which can make it tricky to use in the right quantity. Overuse can overwhelm a dish with sweetness, whereas too little might never unfold its character. A common mistake people make is not balancing this sweetness with other flavors. Pairing it with a tangy or salty ingredient, like cheese or citrus, can create a perfect balance. To get the most out of guava paste, you can heat it briefly to make it easily spreadable for use in sandwiches and pastries. As it's quite thick, you can also slice it into thin pieces for a quick, sweet snack or a cheese and cracker accompaniment. For versatility, consider it as a glaze for meats, particularly pork and chicken. One little known tip is to mix guava paste into your cocktail. The natural sugars and fruit flavor can add an exciting twist to a rum or vodka-based drink.
Can I replace sugar with guava paste in my recipe?
Can guava paste be eaten raw?
How do I balance the sweetness of guava paste in savory recipes?
Can I use guava paste in beverages?
Is guava paste vegan?
How do I make guava paste spreadable?
What cheese pairs best with guava paste?
Does guava paste need to be refrigerated after opening?
Can I use guava paste in baking?
What can I substitute for guava paste?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does guava paste expire?
Unopened guava paste can last up to a year in a cool, dark, and dry pantry if properly sealed. Once opened, the paste should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 weeks for best flavor and quality. Freezing is another great option for extending the shelf life of guava paste. If frozen properly in an airtight container, it can last up to a year. Remember to defrost it in the fridge before use.
How do you tell if guava paste is bad?
Like most preserves, guava paste can spoil if mishandled or not stored properly. Signs of spoilage include changes in texture (such as becoming overly hard or liquidy), color (turning to a darker shade or developing greyish tones), or having an off-smell. If you see mold of any color growing on your guava paste, it's definitely time to throw it out.
Tips for storing guava paste to extend shelf life
• Always store unopened guava paste in a cool, dark, and dry pantry. Avoid placing it near sources of heat or direct sunlight. • After opening, relocate the paste to the fridge in an airtight container. Keep the paste well-sealed between uses to preserve its quality and prevent contamination. • For long term storage, divide the paste into small portions and freeze it in a well-sealed, freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in freezer-friendly bags. • When freezing and thawing guava paste, remember to defrost it in your fridge to maintain a safe temperature and prevent bacteria growth.
EXPIRES WITHIN
7 - 11
MONTHS
Health Info
Macros
20g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
VEGETARIAN
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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