Product Snapshot – La Costena Guava Paste

Guava paste is a dense, yet sweet fruit preserve made from freshly harvested guava fruits – it is similar to other fruit pastes such as quince paste/quince cheese. In some countries, guava paste is also referred to as ‘guava cheese’, because it is normally sliced rather than spooned out of the container – this is due to the guava paste having a thick and firm texture, that seems to resemble a soft jelly.

How to Use:

There are many ways to use Guava Paste, but below are some of the most common:

With cheese: One of the most classic pairings – as the paste is sweet and firm, it pairs amazingly with cheese, especially salty or rich cheeses.
On a cheese board: Use slices of the paste alongside crackers, cured meats and cheese.
In desserts: It can be used in pastries, tarts, cakes or slightly melted for a sauce.
On toast or baked goods: It could be smashed and warmed to spread on toast, or use in other baked goods like croissants.

Tips & Storage:

Store in a cool, dry place until opening – once in use, may need to refrigerate and use within 7 days, to get the best flavour and quality.
As the product is quite sugary, a little can go a long way, especially if using with baked goods/in desserts.
To avoid it being cloying, balance with something savoury and salty (such as the cheese mentioned above).
If planning to use in a recipe, gently heating or cutting into small cubes can make it easier to blend into fillings or doughs.

Recipe Idea – Guava & Cream Cheese Puff Pastries:

Makes: 8 pastries

Time: 20 – 25 minutes

Difficulty: Easy/Beginner

Ingredients:

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed/chilled
150g of La Costena Guava Paste, cut into small cubes or thin slices
100g of cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp of sugar (options, for the cream cheese)
1 egg, beaten (for the egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat:
- Preheat the oven to 200*C / 400*F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Prepare the Pastry:
- Unfold the puff pastry and cut into 8 squares.
3. Fill:
- One each square add 1-2 teaspoons of cream cheese (plain or mixed with sugar).
- Top with 1-2 small small pieces of guava paste.
4. Fold:
- You can shape them in either way – Turnover/triangle or Pocket/square.
  - Turnover/triangle – Fold one corner to the opposite corner and seal edges with a fork.
  - Pocket/square – Place another square on top and crimp edges.
- Once folded, make a small slit or poke with a fork so steam can escape.
5. Brush:
- Brush the tops with a little egg wash for a golden colour.
6. Bake:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until puffed and deep golden.
7. Cool:
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes, as the guava gets very hot, then enjoy!

Serving Ideas:

Dust with powdered sugar
Serve with warm coffee
Add a few drops of lime juice to the cream cheese for a tangy twist

Interested? You can buy La Costena Guava Paste direct from us – just click here!

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