Desserts > Latin American Desserts > Pastry

Pastillas de Guayaba Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of guava paste
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

Special equipment needed:
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Candy thermometer
- Candy molds (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the guava paste, powdered sugar, water, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

2. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. This should take about 15-20 minutes.

3. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.

4. Once the mixture has cooled slightly, transfer it to a large mixing bowl and knead it with your hands until it becomes smooth and pliable.

5. Divide the mixture into small portions and roll them into balls or press them into candy molds.

6. In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar with a few drops of water to create a paste.

7. Roll the candy balls or molds in the sugar paste until they are completely coated.

8. Place the pastillas de guayaba on a sheet of parchment paper to dry and harden for at least 2 hours.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
This recipe makes approximately 20-25 pastillas de guayaba.

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 0g
Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 40mg
Total carbohydrates: 31g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 26g
Protein: 0g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- If you can't find guava paste, you can substitute it with any other fruit paste, such as mango or pineapple.
- You can use corn syrup instead of water to make the sugar paste.

Variations:
- You can add a few drops of lime juice to the mixture for a tangy flavor.
- You can also add some grated coconut to the mixture for a tropical twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to stir the mixture constantly while cooking to prevent it from burning.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- If the mixture is too sticky, you can dust your hands with powdered sugar while kneading it.

Storage instructions:
Store the pastillas de guayaba in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating instructions:
These candies do not need to be reheated.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the pastillas de guayaba on a platter and sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a festive look.

Garnishes:
You can garnish the pastillas de guayaba with some fresh mint leaves or edible flowers.

Pairings:
These candies pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.

Suggested side dishes:
These candies are usually served as a dessert on their own.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little bit more water.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a little bit more powdered sugar.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling the ingredients.

Food history:
Pastillas de guayaba are a traditional Mexican candy that originated in the state of Jalisco.

Flavor profiles:
These candies have a sweet and fruity flavor with a hint of vanilla.

Serving suggestions:
Serve these candies as a sweet treat after a meal or as a snack.

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Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Fruity, Creamy, Aromatic