Bahamian Guava Duff

Bahamian Guava Duff Recipe - A Traditional Dessert from The Bahamas

Region / culture: Bahamas, The Bahamas | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Bahamian Guava Duff is a traditional dessert that embodies the essence of the Bahamas. This delightful treat combines the tropical flavor of guava with a soft, sweet dough, creating a unique and irresistible dessert. The process of making Guava Duff is a labor of love, involving the preparation of guava-filled dough that is then boiled to perfection. Served with a rich, creamy sauce, this dessert is a true representation of Bahamian culinary artistry.

History

The origins of Bahamian Guava Duff can be traced back to the early days of the Bahamas, where guava trees were abundant. The locals devised a way to incorporate this readily available fruit into their cuisine, resulting in the creation of the Guava Duff. Over the years, the recipe has been passed down through generations, becoming a staple in Bahamian celebrations and family gatherings. It symbolizes the fusion of indigenous ingredients and colonial influences, making it an integral part of the islands' culinary heritage.

Ingredients

12 – 15 large guavas, cored and peeled
3 cups flour
4 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 cup sugar
0.25 cup butter
0.25 cup cooking oil
2 eggs, separated
2 tsp vanilla

Sauce

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup butter
2 eggs (or egg whites)
2 tbsp rum (or 2 tsp vanilla)

How to prepare

Rub the cores through a sieve to obtain some of the pulp, and mix it with cut up guavas.
Add sugar to taste.
Beat butter and cooking oil with sugar, then beat in egg yolks.
Sieve flour, baking powder, and salt, and fold it in. Add vanilla.
Divide the dough into 3 balls.
Refrigerate for 0.5 hour until firm.
Spread out each of the balls on a piece of foil and cover them with guava.
Starting at one end, fold into a roll.
Cover with foil, place in a baking bag, and seal it.
Boil for 1 hour in a large pot with hot water.
Slice and serve warm with sauce.

Sauce

Beat egg whites in a dish until foamy.
Cream butter and sugar in a separate dish until the sugar has dissolved.
Gradually add egg whites and vanilla, and continue beating until smooth.
Add it to the top of warm guava duff when serving.

Variations

1. Chocolate Guava Duff: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate twist.
2. Vegan Guava Duff: Substitute the butter and eggs with vegan alternatives like coconut oil and flax eggs.
3. Spiced Guava Duff: Incorporate spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg into the dough for added warmth.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. Ensure the guavas are ripe for the best flavor.

2. When rolling the dough, keep it tight to prevent the filling from leaking out.

3. Boil the duff in a large pot to allow enough space for expansion.

4. To prevent the duff from sticking, generously grease the foil before wrapping.

5. For a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the butter with cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Guava Duff warm with the sauce generously poured over each slice. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making Guava Duff is the boiling process, which requires wrapping the dough securely in foil to prevent water from seeping in. This method ensures that the duff cooks evenly and retains its moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.

2. If guavas are not available, you can use guava paste or jam as a substitute.

3. Honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener instead of sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Guava Duff can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before boiling. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the cooking process more convenient.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the Guava Duff and arrange the slices on a platter, drizzling the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh guava slices or mint leaves for a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Bahamian Guava Duff with a light, fruity wine such as Riesling or a sparkling Prosecco to complement the sweetness of the dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Guava Duff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bahamian Guava Duff contains approximately 400 calories. The calories mainly come from the carbohydrates and fats in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Bahamian Guava Duff contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the flour and sugar used in the dough and sauce, providing the body with energy.

Fats

Each serving of Guava Duff contains about 20 grams of fat, primarily from the butter and cooking oil. While it is a significant source of fats, opting for unsaturated oils can make it a healthier option.

Proteins

This dessert provides about 5 grams of protein per serving, mainly from the eggs used in both the dough and the sauce. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Guava Duff is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the guavas, which are a great source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, and dietary fiber. These nutrients support immune function, vision health, and digestion.

Alergens

Common allergens in Guava Duff include gluten (from flour), eggs, and dairy (from butter). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Bahamian Guava Duff is a high-energy dessert that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals from the guavas. However, it is also high in calories and contains common allergens.

Summary

Bahamian Guava Duff is a cherished dessert that showcases the vibrant flavors of the Bahamas. Through its rich history and delightful taste, it continues to be a symbol of Bahamian culture and tradition. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, making Guava Duff is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of the islands into your home.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Bahamian Guava Duff. It was during my travels to the beautiful islands of the Bahamas, many years ago. I had always been a lover of tropical flavors and when I heard about this traditional dish, I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I was wandering through the vibrant streets of Nassau, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling marketplaces. The air was filled with the fragrant aromas of spices and fresh fruits, and I couldn't help but feel inspired by the vibrant culture of the islands.

As I strolled through the market, I stumbled upon a small stand run by a friendly elderly woman. She was busy preparing a batch of Bahamian Guava Duff, and the sweet scent of guava and cinnamon wafted through the air. Intrigued, I approached her and struck up a conversation.

The woman, whose name was Mrs. McPhee, was more than happy to share her recipe with me. She explained that Bahamian Guava Duff was a traditional dessert made with ripe guava fruit, sugar, and spices, all wrapped up in a soft, steamed dough. It was a labor of love, she said, but the end result was always worth it.

Mrs. McPhee invited me to watch as she prepared the dish, and I eagerly accepted. She showed me how to peel and core the guava fruit, simmer it with sugar and spices until it formed a thick, sweet filling, and then wrap it in a light, fluffy dough. The whole process was a delicate dance of flavors and textures, and I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

After Mrs. McPhee had finished cooking the guava duff, she invited me to sit down and enjoy a slice with her. The dessert was warm and comforting, with the tangy sweetness of the guava perfectly balanced by the soft, pillowy dough. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Mrs. McPhee graciously shared her recipe with me, passing down the knowledge that had been in her family for generations. I carefully wrote down each step, making sure not to miss a single detail. I thanked her profusely for her generosity and promised to carry on the tradition of Bahamian Guava Duff in my own kitchen.

When I returned home from my travels, I couldn't wait to recreate the flavors of the Bahamas in my own kitchen. I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following Mrs. McPhee's recipe to the letter. The process was challenging at first, as I struggled to get the dough just right and to ensure that the guava filling was cooked to perfection.

But as I persevered, I began to feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The familiar scents of guava and cinnamon filled my kitchen, transporting me back to the sunny shores of Nassau. And when I finally pulled the steaming guava duff out of the oven, I knew that I had done justice to Mrs. McPhee's recipe.

I shared the dish with my friends and family, who marveled at the exotic flavors and textures of the Bahamian Guava Duff. They couldn't believe that I had learned how to make such a complex and delicious dessert, and I beamed with pride as they showered me with compliments.

From that day on, Bahamian Guava Duff became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply when I wanted to treat myself to a taste of the tropics. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to Mrs. McPhee and the kindness she had shown me in sharing her recipe.

As the years passed, I became known among my friends as the "guava duff expert," and I would often receive requests for the recipe. I would always gladly share it, passing on the tradition of Bahamian Guava Duff to anyone who was willing to try their hand at making it.

And so, through a chance encounter in a bustling marketplace, I had discovered a recipe that would become a beloved part of my culinary repertoire. Bahamian Guava Duff had not only opened my eyes to new flavors and techniques, but it had also connected me to a kind and generous woman who had shared her heritage with me.

To this day, whenever I make Bahamian Guava Duff, I think of Mrs. McPhee and the warm memories of my time in the Bahamas. The dish serves as a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to bridge cultures, and to create lasting bonds that transcend time and distance. And for that, I am forever grateful.