Guava

Guavas are a remarkable fruit.  For most people, guavas will be a special treat, an exception to eating locally.  These tasty little treats are certainly worth indulging in a little long distance commerce. (For those of us lucky enough to live in the agricultural bounty of Southern California, you can find guavas at the Larchmont Village farmers' market on Sundays.  Look for the punk rock exotic fruit dude.  You'll know him when you see him.)

The first thing you'll notice when shopping for guava is the smell.  It's intense, almost like a fruit punch scented perfume.  The floral aroma will fill your kitchen with an energizing scent.  

Look for guavas that are either pale yellow or pink, depending on the species.  The fruit should be firm to the touch.

Guavas can be eaten whole, if desired.  However, the center is filled with hard seeds & the outer rind has a gritty texture.  Sadly, these are also the most nutritious parts of the fruit.  Isn't that the way it always is?  Grrr.  

Nutritious is is, though!  I'm sure guava will become a cure-all, greatest thing ever, make your life like heaven on earth superfood trend one of these days.  Surprised it hasn't yet.  Well, once acai runs out its welcome, look for guava to take over.  It abounds in vitamins  A & C, contains potassium, magnesium, and other dietary minerals.  The seeds are rich in omega 3 & 6 fats.  The skin contains the highest amount of antioxidants.  the whole fruit is an extraordinary source of dietary fiber. 

So run out and get yourself some guava before all the other trendy fools start making a run on the market.