Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the sweet and tangy flavor of guava! Guava paste, a concentrated form of ripe guavas, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. From classic desserts like cheesecakes and flans, to innovative twists on traditional recipes like empanadas and tacos, guava paste adds a unique and exciting flavor dimension.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious guava paste recipes that you can try today. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory bites, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering recipes. From classic desserts like cheesecakes and flans, to innovative twists on traditional recipes like empanadas and tacos, we’ll show you how guava paste can elevate your cooking game.
Guava Paste Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and savory Guava Paste Glazed Ham recipe. The combination of juicy ham, caramelized guava paste, and a hint of spice will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together guava paste, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scored in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Spread the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Guava Paste and Cheese Empanadas
These sweet and savory empanadas combine the classic Latin American treat with the exotic flavors of guava paste. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these bite-sized treats are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Guava paste (about 1/2 cup)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Place 1-2 teaspoons guava paste in center of each circle. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Fold dough over filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guava Paste Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and tangy twist on classic French toast! This recipe combines the richness of guava paste with the fluffiness of bread, creating a delightful morning treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or brioche bread
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. While toasting, spread about 1 tbsp of guava paste on one half of each bread slice.
6. Fold the other half over the filling to create a sandwich.
7. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve warm with maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Guava Paste and Cream Cheese Pastries
Elevate your pastry game with the sweet and tangy combination of guava paste and cream cheese. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Spread a small amount of guava paste onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
4. Mix cream cheese and a pinch of powdered sugar (if using). Place spoonfuls of the mixture onto the guava paste.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Guava Paste BBQ Sauce
This tropical twist on classic BBQ sauce combines the rich flavors of guava paste with sweet and tangy notes, perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or as a dipping sauce. With its unique flavor profile, this sauce is sure to elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and guava paste until smooth.
2. Add apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Whisk until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Guava Paste Thumbprint Cookies
Add a sweet and tangy twist to traditional thumbprint cookies with the addition of guava paste. These chewy treats are perfect for snacking or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup guava paste, crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
5. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill with crumbled guava paste.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Guava Paste and Pork Belly Tacos
Elevate your taco game with the sweet and savory combination of guava paste and tender pork belly. This unique fusion will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the pork belly strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the pork to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spreading a small amount of guava paste on each tortilla, followed by a few strips of pork belly, a sprinkle of cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava Paste Glazed Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and spicy fusion of flavors. These tender and juicy chicken wings are smothered in a rich guava paste glaze that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together guava paste, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the chicken wings to the glaze mixture and toss until fully coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Guava Paste and Almond Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this exotic fusion of sweet guava paste and crunchy almonds. This tart is perfect for those who crave a taste of the tropics.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Spread guava paste evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the guava paste.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over the pastry and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava Paste Smoothie Bowl
Discover the sweet and tangy flavors of guava in this refreshing smoothie bowl recipe. Perfect for a warm-weather treat or a post-workout pick-me-up, this creamy concoction is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/4 cup frozen guava puree
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a bowl and top with your desired toppings.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Guava Paste and Coconut Flan
This recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of guava with the creamy richness of coconut flan, perfect for a unique dessert experience. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this tropical treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup guavas, pureed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon pectin
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine guava puree, sugar, water, and pectin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the coconut mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or cups.
5. Top each with 1-2 tablespoons of guava paste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava Paste and Brie Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized guava paste and creamy brie cheese on toasted baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe guava, diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 8 ounces brie cheese, softened
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine guava, sugar, and honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a paste (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Top each slice with a spoonful of guava paste.
4. Place brie cheese on top of the guava paste.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Guava Paste and Lime Cheesecake
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with this unique cheesecake recipe, featuring guava paste and a hint of lime. This refreshing dessert is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 lime, zested and juiced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add guava paste, sour cream, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
7. Just before serving, sprinkle with lime zest and drizzle with lime juice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Guava Paste and Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination. Crispy bacon wraps tender shrimp, smothered in a tangy guava paste that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together guava paste and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
3. Wrap each shrimp with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the guava mixture evenly over the shrimp.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people
Guava Paste and Chocolate Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with the sweet and tangy fusion of guava paste and rich chocolate. This unique dessert combines the tropical flavors of guava with the decadence of dark chocolate for a truly unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 1 and 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in guava paste and chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Guava Paste and Mango Salsa
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy combination of guava paste and mango salsa! This perfect blend of Caribbean and Latin American flavors is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup guava paste
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together guava paste and mango chunks until well combined.
2. Add the chopped red onion and jalapeño pepper, stirring gently to distribute evenly.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Guava Paste and Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet and savory casserole combines the natural sweetness of guava paste with the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, guava paste, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour in heavy cream and beaten eggs; mix until smooth.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guava Paste and Rum Glazed Donuts
Elevate your donut game with these sweet and tangy treats, featuring a rich guava paste and rum glaze. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack, these donuts are sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Guava paste (store-bought or homemade)
– Rum glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons dark rum, 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, melted butter, and salt; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe donuts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Allow donuts to cool completely before glazing.
7. For the rum glaze: whisk together powdered sugar, dark rum, and water until smooth. Dip cooled donuts in the glaze.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes (depending on frying time)
Guava Paste and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with the sweet and savory combination of guava paste and wilted spinach. This unique recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to add a tropical twist to their meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the wilted spinach mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Spread guava paste on top of the spinach layer.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava Paste and Walnut Bread
A sweet and savory fusion of flavors, this bread combines the tangy sweetness of guava paste with the earthy richness of walnuts. Perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup guava paste, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, guava paste, and walnuts.
4. Add melted butter, egg, and dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your taste buds on a tropical adventure with these 20 delicious recipes that feature guava paste as the star ingredient! From sweet treats like Guava Paste Thumbprint Cookies and Guava Paste and Coconut Flan, to savory dishes like Guava Paste Glazed Ham and Guava Paste and Pork Belly Tacos, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a unique glaze for your ham or a tasty twist on classic cheesecake, guava paste is the perfect addition to any recipe. So go ahead, get creative, and try one (or two, or three…) of these mouthwatering recipes today!