Guava jelly is a sweet, delicious spread made from the pulp of guava fruit. One serving of guava jelly contains around 50 calories, making it a low-calorie treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Guava jelly is a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, which can help support healthy digestion and boost the immune system. It also contains small amounts of essential minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional value of guava jelly, its health benefits, and ways to incorporate it into your diet.

What is Guava Jelly and How is it Made?

Guava jelly is a fruit preserve that is made from guava pulp, sugar, and water. The mixture is boiled until it thickens and then poured into jars to set. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients like lemon juice or spices to enhance the flavor. Guava jelly is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from breakfast toast to dessert toppings. It has a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with other fruits and dairy products. To make guava jelly at home, you will need fresh guava fruit, sugar, water, and pectin. The guava pulp is first extracted from the fruit and then combined with sugar and water in a large pot. The mixture is then boiled until it thickens, and pectin is added to help it set. The jelly is then poured into sterilized jars and allowed to cool and set before use.

Guava Jelly Calories and Nutritional Value

One tablespoon of guava jelly contains around 50 calories, making it a low-calorie treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. It is also a good source of vitamin C, providing around 10% of the recommended daily intake in a single serving. Guava jelly is also a source of dietary fiber, providing around 1 gram per serving. Fiber is important for maintaining digestive health and can also help keep you feeling full for longer periods of time. In addition to vitamin C and fiber, guava jelly also contains small amounts of essential minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium.

Guava Jelly Ingredients and Additives

The main ingredients in guava jelly are guava pulp, sugar, and water. Additional ingredients may include lemon juice or spices like cinnamon or ginger to enhance the flavor. Some store-bought guava jellies may also include additives like preservatives, artificial colors or flavors, or high fructose corn syrup. If you are looking for a healthier option, try making your own guava jelly at home using fresh ingredients.

Health Benefits of Guava Jelly

Guava jelly is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for supporting a healthy immune system and protecting against disease. It also contains dietary fiber, which can help support digestive health and lower cholesterol levels. Guava jelly may also have anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids. These compounds can help reduce inflammation in the body and protect against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Guava Jelly for Weight Loss

Guava jelly can be a healthy addition to a weight loss diet, as it is low in calories and high in fiber. Fiber can help keep you feeling full for longer periods of time, which may reduce overall calorie intake. However, it is important to consume guava jelly in moderation, as it still contains sugar and calories. Excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain and other health problems like diabetes and heart disease.

How to Eat Guava Jelly?

Guava jelly can be eaten on its own as a sweet treat or added to a variety of recipes for added flavor. It pairs well with other fruits like strawberries or bananas and can also be used as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. Guava jelly can also be used in baked goods like muffins or cakes for added sweetness and flavor. It can also be melted down and used as a glaze for meats like ham or chicken.

Is Guava Jelly Good for You?

Guava jelly can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet, as it provides essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and fiber. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its sugar content. If you are looking for a healthier option, try making your own guava jelly at home using fresh ingredients and limiting the amount of added sugar. You can also look for store-bought options that are made with natural ingredients and do not contain additives like preservatives or artificial colors.

Variants and Flavors of Guava Jelly

Guava jelly is available in a variety of flavors and styles. Some recipes may include additional ingredients like lemon juice or spices to enhance the flavor, while others may be made with different types of sweeteners like honey or agave syrup. You can also find regional variations of guava jelly, each with its own unique flavor and texture. For example, in Brazil, guava paste is a popular dessert that is often served with cheese or crackers.

Guava Jelly Recipes and Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to incorporate guava jelly into your diet. Here are a few recipe ideas to try: - Spread guava jelly onto toast or English muffins for a sweet breakfast treat. - Top yogurt or oatmeal with guava jelly and fresh fruit for a healthy and delicious snack.

Where to Buy Guava Jelly?

Guava jelly can be found in most grocery stores in the jam and preserves aisle. You can also find it at specialty food stores or online retailers like Amazon. If you are looking for a healthier option, try making your own guava jelly at home using fresh ingredients and limiting the amount of added sugar.