Vibrant Guava Jelly (Printable Version)

Transform ripe guavas into a jewel-toned spread perfect for toast, cookies, and desserts.

# Components:

→ Fruit

01 - 3.3 pounds ripe guavas, quartered with skins and seeds intact
02 - 4 cups water

→ Sweetener & Gelling

03 - 4 cups granulated sugar
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

# Method Steps:

01 - Wash guavas thoroughly under running water. Cut them into quarters, leaving skins and seeds intact for natural pectin extraction.
02 - Place guava quarters in a large saucepan. Add 4 cups water and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until fruit is very soft.
03 - Line a large strainer with double layer of cheesecloth and set over a bowl. Pour cooked fruit and liquid into strainer. Allow to drip undisturbed for at least 2 hours or overnight without pressing or squeezing to maintain clarity.
04 - Measure extracted juice and calculate sugar needed using 1 cup sugar per 1 cup juice. Pour juice into clean saucepan, add lemon juice, and stir in measured sugar.
05 - Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly until sugar is completely dissolved.
06 - Boil mixture rapidly for 15 to 20 minutes until it reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer. Skim foam from surface as it rises.
07 - Place a small spoonful of hot jelly on a cold plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with finger, gel stage is achieved.
08 - Pour hot jelly into sterilized jars leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Seal jars immediately with lids.
09 - Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing in a cool, dark place.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Produces a stunningly clear, ruby-pink jelly that looks professional.
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free, relying on the fruit's own pectin and simple sugar.
  • Incredibly versatile as a spread, cookie filling, or glossy pastry glaze.
02 -
  • For extra clarity, avoid pressing the fruit while straining.
  • Use slightly underripe guavas for more natural pectin.
  • Excellent as a glaze for cakes or a filling for thumbprint cookies.
  • Store opened jars in the refrigerator and use within 3 weeks.
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