Guava Stew Recipe – A Delightful Tropical Custard Dessert
Experience a unique and delectable dessert with this Guava Stew recipe, a delightful tropical twist on classic custard. This treat, often referred to as a custard stew, is cherished for its vibrant flavors and creamy texture. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing dessert or a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, it’s a quick and rewarding way to bring a taste of the tropics to your table. Here’s how to make this easy and delicious Guava Stew:
Ingredients
- Guavas: 1/2 kg
- Water: Enough for boiling
- Milk: 4 1/4 cups
- Cornflour: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 12 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Vanilla Essence: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
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Prepare the Guavas: Begin by boiling the guavas in water until they are fully cooked. This should take about 15 minutes. Once tender, remove from heat and let them cool to a manageable temperature.
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Process the Guavas: After cooling, cut the guavas in half and remove the center pulp along with the seeds. Dice the remaining fleshy part, including the skin, into bite-sized pieces. For a smoother texture, strain the pulp through a metal sieve, separating it from the seeds and any remaining fibrous bits.
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Prepare the Custard Base: In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of milk to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
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Thicken the Custard: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornflour in 4 tablespoons of milk, adding more milk if necessary to ensure a smooth mixture. Slowly add this mixture to the simmering milk, stirring constantly. This will help to thicken the custard without forming lumps.
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Sweeten and Flavor: Add sugar to the milk mixture, stirring until it completely dissolves. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring regularly. Once the custard starts to thicken, add the vanilla essence for a lovely aroma and flavor.
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Combine Guava with Custard: Gently fold in the prepared guava pieces into the custard. Ensure the guava is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Taste the custard and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
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Adjust Consistency: The consistency of the custard should be similar to that of pancake batter. It should not become too thick as it is meant to have a stew-like texture with the guava pieces floating in it. Remove from heat before it gets too thick, though you can cook it longer if you prefer a thicker custard.
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Chill and Serve: Allow the Guava Stew to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least an hour before serving. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, which enhances its flavors and provides a refreshing treat.
Notes
- Customization: If you prefer a thicker custard, you can cook it a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, for a lighter version, reduce the cooking time slightly.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the sugar or substitute with a sugar alternative.
- Serving Suggestion: Garnish with a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch of elegance.
Enjoy this creamy and flavorful Guava Stew, perfect for a tropical dessert experience right at home. Serve it chilled for the best taste and indulge in a sweet treat that’s both exotic and comforting. 🌴🍨