Guava Jelly (Printable Version)

Create a vibrant, jewel-toned preserve perfect for filling cookies, spreading on toast, or topping desserts.

# What You Need:

→ Fruit

01 - 3.3 lbs 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

# How To Make It:

01 - Wash guavas thoroughly under running water. Quarter each fruit, retaining skins and seeds for natural pectin content.
02 - Transfer guava quarters to a large saucepan with 4 cups water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until fruit is very soft.
03 - Line a large strainer with double-layered cheesecloth and position over a bowl. Pour cooked fruit mixture into strainer. Allow to drip naturally for minimum 2 hours or overnight without pressing or squeezing to maintain clarity.
04 - Measure extracted juice. For each cup of juice, use 1 cup granulated sugar. Pour juice into a clean saucepan, add lemon juice, and stir in measured sugar until combined.
05 - Bring mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly until all sugar is fully dissolved.
06 - Boil rapidly for 15 to 20 minutes while monitoring temperature with a candy thermometer. Remove from heat when mixture reaches 220°F (104°C). Skim off any accumulated foam from surface.
07 - Place a small spoonful of jelly onto a cold plate. If the sample wrinkles when pushed with a finger, gel stage is achieved.
08 - Pour hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace at the rim. Seal jars immediately with lids.
09 - Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature. Store in a cool, dark location. Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3 weeks.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Pure Clarity: By following the gentle dripping method, you achieve a professional-grade, crystal-clear jelly.
  • Naturally Vibrant: The stunning pink color comes entirely from the fruit, with no artificial dyes needed.
  • Diet-Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for almost any guest.
02 -
  • Clarity: For extra clarity, avoid pressing the fruit while straining; let gravity do the work.
  • Pectin: Use slightly underripe guavas for more natural pectin content to ensure a solid gel.
  • Check Doneness: If you don't have a thermometer, the cold plate wrinkle test is the most reliable way to check if the jelly is ready.
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