Feijoas, also known as pineapple guavas, are little green gems bursting with tropical flavor. Native to South America, these unique fruits have a sweet-tart taste that’s a delightful mix of pineapple, guava, and a hint of mint. Their fragrant aroma and juicy pulp make them perfect for both sweet and savory creations.
As feijoa season rolls around, we love experimenting with ways to showcase their vibrant flavor. Whether you’re blending them into smoothies, baking them into desserts, or adding them to salads, feijoas bring a bright and refreshing twist to any dish. They’re versatile, nutrient-packed, and a treat for the taste buds.
Feijoa Pineapple Guava Recipes
When feijoas—or pineapple guavas—are in season, it’s the perfect opportunity to craft unique and refreshing recipes. These recipes highlight the sweet-tart flavor and aromatic essence of this often underutilized fruit. Let’s dive into a couple of delectable options that make the most of feijoas!
1. Feijoa Smoothie Delight
This creamy and fruity smoothie is perfect for breakfast or a refreshing treat on a warm afternoon. The hint of tartness from feijoas pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of bananas and yogurt.
Ingredients
- 6 fresh feijoas (peeled and halved)
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk alternative)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Ice cubes (optional, for chill)
Steps
- Wash and peel the fresh feijoas. Cut them in half to expose their juicy innards.
- Add the feijoa pulp, banana, Greek yogurt, and almond milk to a blender.
- Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Include ice cubes if you desire a colder texture.
- Taste-test! Add honey if you want a sweeter flavor.
- Serve immediately in glasses and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy and tangy.
2. Feijoa Crumble Dessert
This dessert is a cozy, sweet treat with feijoas taking center stage. The buttery crumble topping pairs excellently with the soft, baked feijoa filling.
Ingredients
- 8 fresh feijoas (peeled, sliced)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and slice the feijoas, then place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the feijoa slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well coated. Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- In another bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, and granulated sugar. Add the cubed butter and rub it into the mixture using your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the feijoa mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the feijoas are bubbling.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
Feijoa Nutrition Snapshot
Adding feijoas to your diet doesn’t just amp up the flavor—it brings health benefits too! Here’s a quick breakdown of feijoa’s nutritional perks:
| Nutrient | Amount (per 100g) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 32.9 mg | Boosts immunity and skin health. |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.4 g | Supports digestion and gut health. |
| Antioxidants | High | Helps combat free radicals in the body. |
| Low Calories | 55 kcal | A healthy, guilt-free addition to meals. |
Ingredients
For The Feijoa Smoothie
- 1 cup feijoa pulp (scooped from ripe fruit)
- 1 banana (medium-sized, ripe)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 5-6 ice cubes
For The Feijoa Salsa
- 6-8 feijoas (peeled and chopped into small pieces)
- 1 small red onion (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (chopped)
- 1 small jalapeño (deseeded and finely chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
For The Feijoa Cake
- 1 1/2 cups feijoa pulp (approx. 10-12 feijoas scooped out)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Follow these step-by-step directions to create incredible dishes featuring the sweet-tart flavor of feijoas (pineapple guavas). Each recipe highlights their versatility and adaptability in both sweet and savory dishes.
Prep The Feijoa Fruit
- Wash the feijoas thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris from the skin.
- Using a knife, cut off both the stem and blossom ends.
- Slice the feijoas in half lengthwise for easier preparation.
- Scoop out the flesh with a spoon. The ripe, creamy interior is what we’ll use in our recipes.
- If retaining the skin for certain uses (e.g., baking), trim any rough spots. For most recipes, you’ll primarily use the scooped pulp.
- Place the prepared feijoa pulp in a bowl and proceed to the respective recipe directions.
Make The Feijoa Smoothie
- Add 1 cup of feijoa pulp, 1 ripe banana, and 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt to a blender.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of almond milk or any milk of your choice.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey or a sweetener for enhanced sweetness (optional).
- Blend the ingredients on high until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency by adding honey or more almond milk if required.
- Pour into a tall serving glass and garnish with a slice of feijoa or a sprinkle of chia seeds for texture.
- Serve chilled and enjoy a refreshing Feijoa Smoothie Delight, perfect for breakfast or a midday energy boost.
Prepare The Feijoa Salsa
- Finely chop the following ingredients and transfer them to a bowl:
- 1 cup of feijoa pulp
- 1 small red onion
- 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 jalapeño (seeded for less heat, if desired).
- Add the juice of 1 lime directly into the mixture, squeezing out every drop of tangy goodness.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chopped ingredients.
- Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Gently toss everything together until evenly combined.
- Let the salsa sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve this zesty Feijoa Salsa with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or as a fresh complement to grilled dishes.
Bake The Feijoa Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Sift together the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients:
- 1 cup of feijoa pulp
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup of buttermilk
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until smooth. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve your moist Feijoa Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tools And Equipment Needed
Creating delicious feijoa pineapple guava recipes like smoothies, crumbles, and cakes requires some essential tools and equipment to ensure seamless preparation. Here are the must-haves for your feijoa creations.
Blender
A high-powered blender is indispensable for our feijoa recipes, especially smoothies and purees. It helps us achieve a smooth and creamy consistency for recipes like the Feijoa Smoothie Delight. Look for a blender with settings for soft fruits to handle the delicate feijoa pulp.
- We recommend using a blender with at least 750 watts for quick and efficient blending.
- A blender with a rubber-sealed lid helps to avoid messes when blending fruits.
- Ensure your blender has a pulse option for controlling texture with ease.
Mixing Bowls
Mixing Bowls are essential for combining ingredients for our sweet feijoa dishes, like the crumble topping or the Feijoa Cake batter. We suggest a range of sizes for versatility in meal prep.
| Bowl Size | Suggested Use |
|---|---|
| Small Bowl | Mixing dry spices, herbs, or citrus juice |
| Medium Bowl | Preparing crumble toppings or salsa ingredients |
| Large Bowl | Combining cake batter or tossing salad ingredients |
Using glass or stainless-steel bowls is highly recommended for durability and easy cleaning.
Cake Pan
For our moist and tender Feijoa Cake, a 9-inch round cake pan is ideal. It provides even baking, ensuring the cake rises beautifully and has a golden crust.
- Using a non-stick pan helps prevent sticking. Always grease it lightly for the best results.
- Choose a pan with high sides to accommodate the rising cake batter.
- For added convenience when releasing the cake, consider a springform pan.
Having these tools and equipment ready will make your exploration of feijoa pineapple guava recipes more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Make-Ahead Tips
When working with feijoas (pineapple guavas), planning ahead can save time and help preserve their unique tropical flavor. Here are some practical tips to prep, store, and organize your feijoa-based recipes efficiently:
1. Preparing Feijoas in Advance
- Wash and Peel: Wash the feijoas thoroughly under cold water. Use a paring knife or vegetable peeler to remove the thin skin.
- Scoop or Slice: If you prefer not to peel, slice the feijoa in half and scoop out the pulp with a small spoon.
- Portion the Pulp: Measure the feijoa pulp into quantities you’ll need for specific recipes (e.g., 1 cup for smoothies, 2 cups for salsa, or 300g for cakes) and store accordingly.
2. Storing Feijoa Pulp
- Refrigerate: Place the prepared pulp in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. It’s perfect for quick smoothie prep or dessert fillings.
- Freezing Tips: For long-term storage, spoon pulp into freezer-safe bags or silicone molds. Label each portion with dates and quantities using the table below for reference.
| Quantity (Cups) | Purpose | Freezer Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Cup | Smoothies | Up to 6 months |
| 2 Cups | Sauces and salsa | Up to 6 months |
| 300g | Baking | Up to 6 months |
Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before freezing to maintain the color and flavor of your feijoas.
3. Pre-Baking or Pre-Cooking Components
- Crumble Toppings: Prepare crumble toppings for desserts in advance. Store them in a resealable freezer bag for up to one month and sprinkle them directly over feijoa bakes when needed.
- Salsa Mixture: Chop feijoas, red onions, and cilantro ahead of time. Keep them in separate containers in the fridge and combine just before serving.
- Smoothie Freezer Packs: Combine feijoa pulp, banana slices, and yogurt into individual freezer bags. Blend directly from frozen for a fuss-free breakfast option.
4. Thawing and Using Feijoa Pulp
- Thaw frozen feijoa portions in the fridge overnight. For quick use, place the frozen pulp in the microwave on defrost mode for 1–2 minutes. Stir thoroughly before using in recipes to restore its consistency.
- For smoothies, use the pulp straight from the freezer for an icy texture.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying the versatile feijoa (pineapple guava), there are countless ways to present and pair these sweet-tart fruits. Whether served fresh, baked, or blended, feijoas can enhance both everyday meals and special occasions. Here are some carefully curated serving ideas to maximize their tropical flavor:
1. Fresh and Simple
- Scoop out fresh feijoa pulp with a spoon and enjoy it as is for a quick, refreshing snack.
- Pair freshly sliced feijoas with other tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and kiwi to create a vibrant fruit platter.
2. Toppings and Enhancements
- Use diced feijoas as a topping for oatmeal, parfaits, or yogurt bowls. Their natural sweetness complements creamy bases effortlessly.
- Sprinkle your morning pancakes or waffles with feijoa slices and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a tropical twist.
3. Dessert Pairings
- Serve the Feijoa Crumble Dessert warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream for a comforting treat.
- For a rustic dessert table, feijoa tartlets or pies can be arranged on wooden boards, showcasing the fruit’s golden baked filling.
4. Feijoa Drinks
- Present the Feijoa Smoothie Delight in tall glasses with decorative straws and a fresh mint garnish for a refreshing breakfast option or afternoon pick-me-up.
- Garnish cocktails like mojitos or margaritas with freshly sliced feijoas or muddle them into drinks for an exotic flavor infusion.
5. Savory Pairings
- Serve Feijoa Salsa alongside tortilla chips as an appetizer or use it as a tangy topping for grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp tacos.
- Incorporate chopped feijoas into leafy green salads, pairing them with ingredients like feta cheese, toasted walnuts, and balsamic glaze for a satisfying meal.
6. Baking and Breakfast Ideas
- Slice the Feijoa Cake into even servings, dust with powdered sugar, and serve alongside hot tea or coffee for a delightful brunch option.
- Add chopped feijoas into muffin or pancake batter, complementing the mix with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon.
7. Seasonal Displays
Make the most of the feijoa season by arranging these fruits beautifully in decorative bowls or baskets on dining tables. They contribute a pop of color and double as edible decor during brunches or garden parties.
Tips for Presentation
- For salads or desserts, use a garnish of fresh mint or edible flowers to enhance feijoa’s appearance and fragrance.
- Serve cold dishes like smoothies or fruit platters on chilled plates to maintain their refreshing essence.
| Serving Style | Perfect For | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh feijoa slices | Quick snacks, fruit platters | Scoop just before serving for freshness. |
| Feijoa Crumble Dessert | After-dinner treat | Add vanilla ice cream for indulgence. |
| Feijoa Salsa | Appetizers, taco toppings | Balance with lime for acidity. |
| Feijoa Smoothies | Breakfast, post-workout beverage | Garnish with mint for extra flair. |
| Feijoa Cake | Brunch, tea-time | Dust lightly with powdered sugar. |
Experiment with these suggestions to showcase the unique taste and aromatic profile of feijoas on your table.
Storage And Leftovers
Proper storage is key to maintaining the vibrant flavor and fresh texture of feijoas (pineapple guavas), whether you’re saving whole fruits, leftover dishes, or prepared components. Below, we’ve shared best practices to ensure your feijoa recipes stay delicious and ready to use.
Storing Fresh Feijoas
Fresh feijoas are highly perishable, so it’s important to handle them with care. Follow these steps for effective storage:
- Room Temperature: Store unripe feijoas at room temperature for 2-4 days to let them ripen.
- Refrigeration: Once ripe, place the feijoas in a perforated bag or a breathable container in the refrigerator. They typically stay fresh for up to 5-7 days.
- Freezing: To extend shelf life, scoop out feijoa pulp, portion it into airtight freezer containers, and freeze for up to 6 months.
Handling Leftovers
If you’ve prepared feijoa-based recipes like smoothies, desserts, or salsa, here’s how to manage leftovers:
- Smoothies and Beverages: Immediately transfer leftover Feijoa Smoothie to a glass jar with a tight lid and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Stir well before consuming. For longer storage, freeze smoothies in an ice cube tray for up to 2 months.
- Feijoa Salsa: Cover any leftover Feijoa Salsa tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for the freshest flavor.
- Baked Goods: Wrap unused portions of Feijoa Cake or Feijoa Crumble tightly in plastic wrap or store in a sealed container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen baked goods at room temperature before serving.
Tips for Freezing Feijoas
To preserve the rich sweet-tart flavor of feijoas, follow these freezing techniques:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Wash and peel | Rinse feijoas under cold water, pat dry, and peel the skin. |
| Scoop pulp | Cut feijoas in half and scoop out the pulp using a spoon. |
| Portion and store | Divide pulp into airtight containers or resealable freezer bags, removing excess air. |
| Label and freeze | Label each container with the date, then freeze immediately for long-term storage. |
Thawing Frozen Feijoa Pulp
When you’re ready to use frozen feijoa pulp, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw slowly overnight. For quicker thawing, submerge the sealed container in cold water for 15-20 minutes. Thawed pulp is perfect for incorporating into smoothies, cakes, or homemade sauces.
Avoiding Waste
To reduce waste and make the most of leftover feijoas:
- Blend overripe feijoas into jams or chutneys.
- Puree leftover pulp into a sorbet base for a refreshing dessert.
- Use leftover Feijoa Salsa as a zesty addition to tacos or salad bowls.
Maintaining proper storage ensures your feijoa recipes shine with their signature tropical taste, whether fresh or saved for later.
Conclusion
Feijoas bring a burst of tropical flavor and endless possibilities to our kitchens. Whether we’re blending them into smoothies, baking them into cakes, or crafting vibrant salsas, these versatile fruits elevate every dish they touch. Their unique taste, combined with impressive nutritional benefits, makes them a must-have ingredient for both sweet and savory creations.
By experimenting with feijoa recipes and incorporating proper storage techniques, we can enjoy their fresh, tangy goodness throughout the season and beyond. Let’s embrace the creativity and delicious potential that feijoas offer, turning every meal into a flavorful adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are feijoas, and what do they taste like?
Feijoas, also called pineapple guavas, are tropical fruits with a unique sweet-tart flavor. They taste like a mix of pineapple and guava with a subtle hint of mint.
How can I use feijoas in cooking?
Feijoas are versatile and can be used in smoothies, desserts, salads, salsas, and baked goods. They add a tropical twist to both sweet and savory dishes.
What nutritional benefits do feijoas offer?
Feijoas are high in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, with a low calorie count, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
How should I store feijoas to keep them fresh?
Store unripe feijoas at room temperature to ripen. Once ripe, refrigerate them in breathable containers. The pulp can also be frozen for long-term storage.
What tools and equipment are essential for feijoa recipes?
Key tools include a high-powered blender for smoothies, mixing bowls, and a 9-inch non-stick cake pan for baking. These tools enhance the cooking experience.
Can I prepare feijoas ahead of time?
Yes, you can peel and portion feijoa pulp in advance. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Pre-make components like crumble toppings or salsa to save time.
What are some creative ways to serve feijoas?
Enjoy fresh feijoas as a snack, use them as oatmeal or pancake toppings, or pair them with ice cream in desserts. Try feijoa salsa with chips or grilled meats for savory options.
How can I avoid waste with overripe feijoas?
Overripe feijoas can be repurposed into jams, sorbets, or used as a zesty ingredient in baked goods or smoothies. This reduces waste while maintaining flavor.
What are some easy feijoa recipes to try?
Popular recipes include Feijoa Smoothies with bananas and yogurt, Feijoa Crumble topped with buttery oats, and Feijoa Salsa made with onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
Is it necessary to peel feijoas before using them?
Yes, the skin is typically too tart to eat. Scoop out the soft pulp with a spoon after cutting the fruit in half for use in recipes.