Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with 20 delicious guava paste recipes that will take your taste buds on a sweet and savory adventure! Guava paste, made from the puree of ripe guavas, adds a depth of flavor and tropical twist to a variety of dishes. From sweet treats like flan and donuts to savory delights like empanadas and BBQ ribs, this versatile ingredient is sure to elevate your cooking game.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the many uses of guava paste, from classic pairings with cheese and meats to creative combinations with fruits and grains. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, there’s something for everyone in these 20 mouthwatering recipes.
Guava Paste and Cheese Empanadas
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of guava paste and melted cheese wrapped in flaky pastry. These bite-sized empanadas are perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup guava paste, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water, mixing until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
5. Place 1 tablespoon of guava paste and 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese in the center of each dough circle.
6. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or square shape. Press edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake empanadas for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guava Paste Glazed Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops with a sweet and tangy glaze featuring guava paste, a tropical twist on traditional barbecue flavors. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons guava paste
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together guava paste, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guava Paste Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and tangy twist on classic French toast. The addition of guava paste adds a pop of tropical flavor to the crispy, buttery bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon or powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and sugar until well combined.
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 the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. While the French toast is cooking, spread a tablespoon of guava paste onto one half of each slice.
6. Fold the other half of the bread over the filling to create a sandwich-like shape.
7. Serve warm, dust with cinnamon or powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Guava Paste and Cream Cheese Pastries
Discover the sweet and tangy combination of guava paste and cream cheese in these flaky pastries, perfect for a breakfast or snack treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ 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 lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together guava paste and cream cheese until well combined.
4. Place a tablespoon of the guava-cream cheese mixture in the center of each square. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape, and press edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
6. Place pastries on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guava Paste BBQ Chicken Wings
Elevate your BBQ game with this sweet and tangy recipe featuring guava paste! This unique twist on classic BBQ wings will be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together guava paste, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. If desired, brush with barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava Paste and Coconut Flan
This exotic dessert combines the sweet and tangy flavors of guava paste with the creamy richness of coconut flan. Perfect for a warm evening, this recipe is sure to transport you to the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
For the Guava Paste:
– 1 cup guava puree
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon pectin
For the Coconut Flan:
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine guava puree and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture thickens and passes the “wrinkle test”.
4. Prepare the coconut flan by whisking together coconut milk, sugar, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Guava Paste Glazed Ham
This recipe combines the rich flavor of guava paste with a sweet and sticky glaze to elevate your holiday ham game. The result is a tender, caramelized ham that’s perfect for special occasions.
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
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together guava paste, brown sugar, honey, mustard, and garlic.
3. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan and brush with the glaze.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Baste the ham every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your ham.
Guava Paste and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the sweet and savory combination of guava paste and creamy brie.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 1 wheel of brie cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a round of brie cheese and a spoonful of guava paste.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes total
Guava Paste Swirl Brownies
Elevate your brownie game with the addition of guava paste, adding a burst of tropical flavor to this rich and fudgy dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, milk, eggs, and guava paste. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl; stir into batter.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and swirl with a knife or spatula.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Guava Paste and Almond Tart
This sweet and tangy tart is a perfect blend of tropical flavors, with the sweetness of guava paste balanced by the nutty flavor of almonds. A simple yet impressive dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle almonds and honey over the guava paste. Season with salt.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Guava Paste Glazed Salmon
Savor the sweetness of guava and the richness of salmon with this tropical twist on a classic glazed fish recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together guava paste, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Guava Paste and Mango Salsa
Elevate your snacks or appetizers with this sweet and tangy fusion of flavors from the tropics! This recipe combines the richness of guava paste with the freshness of mango salsa for a unique and addictive taste experience.
Ingredients:
For the Guava Paste:
– 1 cup guava puree
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine guava puree, brown sugar, and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir to combine.
4. Let the guava paste cool before serving. Serve with the mango salsa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Guava Paste Filled Donuts
Sweeten your day with these delectable donuts filled with a tangy guava paste.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Guava paste (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, yeast, and sugar.
3. Add melted butter and mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and roll out into desired thickness.
6. Cut into donut shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Fry the donuts in hot oil (350°F/180°C) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool slightly before filling with guava paste.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guava Paste and Ricotta Pancakes
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional pancakes by combining the sweetness of guava paste with the creaminess of ricotta cheese. This unique breakfast treat is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons guava paste, melted
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and ricotta cheese.
3. Add the melted guava paste to the wet ingredients and mix well.
4. Combine the dry and wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil if necessary.
6. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Guava Paste BBQ Ribs
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with this unique twist on classic BBQ ribs. The sweet and tangy flavor of guava paste adds a Caribbean flair to these fall-off-the-bone tender ribs.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-low heat (275°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together guava paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Remove membrane from ribs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the guava mixture evenly onto both sides of the ribs.
5. Place ribs on grill and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and caramelized.
6. Finish with a quick glaze by brushing with olive oil during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Guava Paste and Lime Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and refreshing cheesecake recipe, combining the sweetness of guava paste with the brightness of lime. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you want to add a touch of tropical flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by guava paste, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
Guava Paste Stuffed Chicken Breast
Experience the sweet and savory combination of guava paste and chicken breast in this mouth-watering recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup guava paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together guava paste, garlic, and thyme.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the guava paste mixture.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava Paste and Walnut Bread
Elevate your bread game with the sweet and savory combination of guava paste and crunchy walnuts. This unique recipe is perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add guava paste and whisk until smooth. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guava Paste Glazed Carrots
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional glazed carrots, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the tropical flavors of guava paste.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch sticks
– 1/4 cup guava paste
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together guava paste, honey, and olive oil.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot sticks in a single layer.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Guava Paste and Coconut Rice Pudding
This Caribbean-inspired dessert combines the sweetness of guava paste with the creaminess of coconut rice pudding, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup guava paste, chopped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped guava paste and butter until melted.
3. Transfer pudding to individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of guava paste with these 20 delicious recipes that combine sweet and savory flavors. From breakfast to dessert, and from snacks to main courses, guava paste adds a unique twist to classic dishes. Try using it to make Guava Paste and Cheese Empanadas or Guava Paste Glazed Pork Chops for a savory treat. Alternatively, indulge in sweet treats like Guava Paste Stuffed French Toast or Guava Paste Swirl Brownies. With its rich flavor profile, guava paste is the perfect addition to any meal.
