Smart Tips To Choose The Sweetest Guava Every Time
Picking the perfect guava is an art—learn how to choose the sweetest, juiciest, and most flavourful fruit every time.
Guavas, often celebrated as a superfruit, are loved across households for their unique flavour and impressive health benefits. Rich in Vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants, this tropical fruit boosts immunity, supports digestion, and keeps seasonal illnesses away. From sprinkling salt and chilli over slices to turning them into chutneys and pickles, guavas are enjoyed in countless ways.
Yet, for many, choosing the right guava remains tricky. A guava that’s too raw can taste overly tart, while an overripe one may turn mushy and lose its natural charm. If you’re someone who often ends up with less-than-perfect fruit, here are some foolproof tips to help you pick the best and sweetest guava every time.
1. Colour Speaks Volumes
The first thing to check when buying guavas is their colour. A shiny dark green guava usually means it is unripe. The best pick is a fruit that appears light green or has a gentle yellow tint—these strike the right balance between sweet and tangy. Be cautious of guavas that look too yellow, as they are often overripe and lack the perfect blend of flavour.
2. Trust Your Nose
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to judge guava ripeness is through smell. A ripe guava gives off a natural sweet fragrance that signals its readiness. If the fruit has no smell, it is likely unripe. On the other hand, a guava with a sour or foul odour has already spoiled. Relying on your sense of smell can save you from disappointment.
3. Check Shape, Texture, And Firmness
A guava’s appearance can also reveal its quality. Avoid fruits with black spots, holes, or irregular shapes as they may be infested with worms. When holding the guava, gently press it. A ripe guava should feel firm yet yield slightly under pressure. If it feels too soft or mushy, it is past its best.
4. Inspect For Cuts And Bruises
Always pick guavas with smooth, unblemished skin. Cuts, scratches, or bruises can affect the fruit’s flavour and shorten its freshness. A clean, unmarred surface ensures the guava remains juicy, sweet, and safe to consume.
How To Relish Guavas The Right Way
Once you’ve picked the perfect guava, enjoying it is simple. Rinse the fruit gently under running water to remove dirt and impurities. Slice it open with a sharp knife and enjoy it as is, or sprinkle some salt and chilli for an extra kick. While many enjoy the edible skin and crunchy seeds, you can peel the skin and scoop out the seeds if you prefer a smoother bite.
A Perfect Pick Every Time
Selecting guavas may seem challenging, but with a little observation, it becomes second nature. By checking the colour, fragrance, firmness, and skin condition, you can ensure every guava you bring home is sweet, delicious, and packed with nutrients. The next time you head to the market, these simple tips will help you savour guavas at their absolute best.
