Strawberry Guava: Description, Flavor, Benefits, And Uses

Strawberry guava (Psidium littorale var. longipes) is a small, evergreen shrub or tree that grows up to 12 feet tall and is native to the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. The plant has white flowers with bright red berries that contain edible pulp and seeds. The pulp is sweet and tart and has a flavor that resembles a mix of strawberries, guavas, and pineapples.

Description / Taste:

Strawberry guava is small to medium-sized and round in shape with a bright red to purplish-red exterior skin when ripe. The interior flesh is white or pale pink, juicy, sweet, and tart, with a flavor that resembles a mix of strawberries, guavas, and pineapples.

Seasons / Availability:

Strawberry guava is available year-round.

Geography / History:

Strawberry guava is native to the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and South America. It was introduced to other tropical regions in the late 19th century for its edible fruit and ornamental qualities.

Applications of Strawberry Guava:

Strawberry guava can be eaten fresh, cooked into jam or jelly, used as a topping on ice cream and desserts, and blended into smoothies, juices, and cocktails. The fruit can also be candied or dried.

Nutritional Value:

Strawberry guava is a good source of vitamin C and contains some potassium, dietary fiber, magnesium, calcium, and antioxidants. It is also low in calories and fat.

Health Benefits of Strawberry Guava:

Strawberry guava is an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system and protect against free radical damage. It is also rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help reduce cholesterol levels. Additionally, it provides potassium to regulate blood pressure and magnesium for healthy bones and muscles.

Finally, strawberry guava contains antioxidants that can help protect against heart disease, cancer, and other diseases.

The versatility of this fruit makes it a popular choice in cooking, baking, and beverages. With its unique flavor profile and health benefits, It is an ideal ingredient for adding sweetness and nutrition to dishes or drinks.

Storage:

Strawberry guava should be stored at room temperature and will keep for up to a week. They can also be refrigerated for up to two weeks or frozen for several months.

How to Use Strawberry Guava?

Strawberry guava can be used in various ways, such as added to smoothies, juices, jams and jellies, desserts, ice creams, cocktails, or candied. For flavor and nutrition, the fruit can also be cooked with chicken or pork. Additionally, the leaves can be brewed into a tea for a refreshing and healthful beverage.

Recipes to Use Strawberry Guava:

Strawberry guava can be used in a variety of recipes, such as:

Strawberry Guava Jam – Combine 2 cups strawberries, 2 cups guavas, and 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the fruit softens. Strain the mixture and discard the solids. Return to the pot, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and cook until thickened.
Strawberry Guava Smoothie – Blend 2 cups of guavas, 1 banana, and ½ cup strawberries. Add a splash of orange or apple juice if desired.
Candied Strawberry Guava – Cut the fruit into quarters and simmer in 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water for about 10 minutes. Drain the liquid, spread the pieces on a baking sheet, and bake at 250°F for 2-3 hours or until crisp.
Strawberry Guava Margarita – Blend 2 cups of guavas, 3 ounces tequila, 1 ounce lime juice, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Pour into glasses and garnish with a strawberry or lime wedge.

These are just some of the ways to make use of this delicious, nutritious fruit. ‬ ‭

In Conclusion:

Strawberry guava is a nutritious and delicious fruit with a unique flavor and aroma that is versatile enough to be used in many recipes. This fruit can add sweetness and nutrition to any dish, whether eaten fresh, cooked into jams or jellies, added to smoothies or juices, or brewed into tea. With its high levels of vitamin C, dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants, strawberry guava offers numerous health benefits that make it a great addition to any diet.

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Mitch Baylis

Mitch Baylis is a backyard gardener. His passion for nutrient dense, sustainably grown food has taken him across the globe in search for the best vegetable gardens on earth.