Guava

Guava season

Grown in South America, Africa and Asia, the guava is often found on European markets in winter. It can, however, be found all year round.

Nutritional value of guava

An exceptional source of vitamin C (more than oranges and kiwis), this fruit is an excellent intestinal stimulant (people who have sensitive intestines should avoid this fruit). It also contains vitamins A and B. In addition to being light (only 33 kilocalories per 100 grammes), guava is rich in calcium, magnesium, iron and especially potassium.

Guava varieties

There are about a hundred species, but only two varieties are found in France:

• the pirifera guava, which is pear shaped with pinkish, yellow or white flesh;
• the pomifera guava, which is apple shaped wiith salmon pink flesh.

Guava facts

Store guava at room temperature if it is not yet ripe. It is very fragile and must never spend more than two days in the vegetable crisper of the refrigerator, or its flesh will become hard and tough.

It can be eaten raw, cooked, sweetened or served as an accompaniment for savoury dishes.