Guava Paste-Guayabate

Directions

1. 1
   Cut guavas in half and scoop out the seeds.
2. 2
   Soak the seeds in 1 cup of the water.
3. 3
   Place the guavas in a saucepan with the remaining water.
4. 4
   Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the guavas are very soft.
5. 5
   Stir often to prevent scorching and sticking to the pot.
6. 6
   Strain the water from the seeds-it will be slightly mucilaginous-and add to the cooked guavas.
7. 7
   Discard seeds.
8. 8
   Grind the guavas through a food mill and measure pulp.
9. 9
   Add an equal amount of sugar.
10. 10
    Mix well and place in a large heavy saucepan over low heat and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is thick and a little jelly tested on an ice cube can be lifted off in one piece.
11. 11
    Remove from heat and beat with a wooden spoon for 10 minutes or until the mixture forms a heavy paste.
12. 12
    Turn out into a loaf pan lined with wax paper or a square casserole pan lined with wax paper.
13. 13
    Set in a cool place for 24 hours.
14. 14
    To store, turn the paste out of the pan and wrap it securely in foil.
15. 15
    *Fora dried consistency, place the cooked paste on wax paper on a wooden board, cover with cheesecloth and set in the sun for two days.
16. 16
    Turn the paste occasionally to expost all surfaces to the sun.