More feijoa than you know what to do with? Let's make some pineapple guava also known as feijoa jam. With its rich, tropical flavour, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. Feijoa /pineapple guava has a unique flavour. By making it into jam, we can enjoy this exotic fruit all year round.
What is Feijoa?
Feijoa, pronounced fay-joh-uh, is commonly known as pineapple guava. This exotic fruit is native to South America, primarily found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. Scientifically known as Acca sellowiana, feijoa belongs to the Myrtaceae family, which includes other notable plants like guava, eucalyptus, and bottlebrush.
Feijoa trees can be classified as both shrubs and small trees, typically growing between 3 to 7 meters tall. These evergreen plants produce beautiful flowers in late spring or early summer, with pink or red bases and numerous prominent stamens. While feijoa trees are somewhat self-fertile, they benefit greatly from cross-pollination, which is often facilitated by bees and other pollinators.
Appearance and Taste of Feijoa
Feijoas are small, green, oval-shaped fruits with slightly bumpy skin. The peak season for feijoas is typically in autumn or early winter, depending on the region. The fruit is best enjoyed when it’s fully ripe, as it doesn’t continue to ripen after being harvested.
The taste of feijoa is complex and unique, often described as a blend of guava, pineapple, and mint. The flesh is aromatic and slightly grainy, similar to a pear. Some people enjoy eating the skin, while others find it bitter and prefer to scoop out the flesh with a spoon.
How to Tell When a Feijoa is Ripe
Knowing when a feijoa is ripe is crucial for the best flavour and texture. Here are some tips:
Softness: A ripe feijoa should give slightly when squeezed, similar to a ripe avocado.
Colour: The skin of a ripe feijoa is typically green with a slight yellow or brownish tinge.
Aroma: Ripe feijoas have a distinct, pleasant smell.
Ease of Picking: A ripe feijoa should detach easily from the tree with a gentle twist or pull.
Pairing Feijoa with Other Flavours
Feijoas’ unique flavour profile allows them to be paired with a variety of sweet and savoury dishes. Here are some ideas:
Berries: Combine ripe feijoas with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to create fruit salads, jams, or smoothies.
Citrus Fruits: The tangy flavours of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, or limes complement the sweetness of feijoa.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can enhance the unique flavour of feijoa. Sprinkle these spices over feijoas when using them in baking or desserts.
Salads: Add feijoa slices to salads for a burst of fruity flavour. Pair them with greens and sprinkle your favourite nuts on top.
Yogurt or Ice Cream (plant-based): Fresh feijoa slices with a scoop of yogurt or ice cream make for a refreshing and sweet combination.
Chutneys and Relishes: Feijoas can be cooked down into chutneys or relishes, perfect as a condiment for savoury dishes.
The Benefits of Feijoa
Feijoas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. Here are some key benefits:
Digestive Health: Rich in dietary fibre, feijoas promote healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation.
Immune Support: Feijoas are high in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, helps fight off infections, and aids in wound healing.
Antioxidants: Feijoas contain antioxidants, including vitamin C and flavonoids, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Heart Health: Low in saturated fat and sodium, but high in dietary fibre and potassium, feijoas are beneficial for heart health.
Cultivating Feijoas
Feijoas thrive in regions with a Mediterranean-like climate, such as New Zealand. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but are hardy enough to withstand occasional frosts. Feijoas can be propagated through seedlings, cuttings, or grafting.
Making Pineapple Guava Jam (Feijoa Jam)
Making your own pineapple guava jam or feijoa jam is a rewarding experience. This classic fruit jam recipe captures the delicious tropical flavour of feijoa and pineapple guava, perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with plant-based cheese, or adding to desserts.
The key to a successful feijoa /pineapple guava jam recipe is selecting ripe guavas and balancing the sweetness with the natural tartness of the fruit. Using fresh lemon juice or lime juice can enhance the flavour, while cups of sugar help to achieve the perfect jam consistency. Using a food processor to prepare the fruit mixture can give you more control over the texture and flavour. Be sure to sterilise your jars and use a boiling water bath to ensure your jam is preserved safely.
Feijoa and Pineapple Jam Recipe (Pineapple Guava Jam Recipe)
Ingredients
2 cups feijoas (peeled and chopped)
1 cup pineapple (peeled, cored, and chopped. I use frozen pineapple and defrost it in the fridge overnight)
2 cups granulated sugar (I use CSR Jam Setting Sugar)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
Peel and chop the ingredients to roughly the size that you would like it to be for your jam. I like smaller pieces in my jam, so once I chop the ingredients I put them in my blender and use pulse until I am happy with the size of the fruit.
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped feijoas, pineapple, sugar, and lemon juice.
Stir the mixture well and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the sugar to dissolve and the fruits to release their juices.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
To test the jam's readiness, you can perform the "wrinkle test": Place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate, let it cool for a few seconds, then push it gently with your finger. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it's ready. If not, continue simmering for a bit longer and repeat the test.
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace at the top.
Seal the jars tightly and let them cool completely at room temperature. As the jam cools, you may hear the lids pop, indicating a proper seal.
Once the jars have cooled, you can store them in the refrigerator for immediate use. If you prefer to store the jam at room temperature, make sure the jars are properly sealed and store them in a cool, dark place.
Conclusion
Feijoa, or pineapple guava, is a versatile and nutritious fruit that makes for a delicious and exotic jam. With its unique flavour and numerous health benefits, feijoa jam is a wonderful addition to your pantry. Try making your own pineapple guava jam or feijoa jam today and enjoy the tropical taste of this extraordinary fruit.
For another jam recipe read: Simple 3 Ingredient Mulberry Jam Recipe.
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