Goiabada

Goiabada is a cherished dessert in Portuguese-speaking countries, with origins tracing back to Brazil's colonial era. Made from red guavas and sugar, it is slowly cooked in large cauldrons over an open fire, resulting in its distinctive flavor and texture. In Brazil, goiabada is a popular homemade treat, but it is also readily available in stores.

In English-speaking countries, you might encounter goiabada as guava paste or guava cheese. In Spanish-speaking regions, it is known by various names. In India, a former Portuguese colony, it is called perad. One classic Brazilian way to enjoy goiabada is paired with Minas cheese, a combination affectionately known as "Romeo and Juliet." It is also commonly spread on toast for breakfast.

In Portugal, goiabada often serves a different purpose, frequently used as a filling in bolo de rosas (rose cake) and rocambole, which is similar to a Swiss roll. The texture of goiabada can vary from a soft paste to firm slabs, with canned versions typically being easy to slice. The final texture and flavor depend on the type of guava used, the amount of sugar, water content, and the cooking method.