Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Guatemala with our authentic delicacy, Jocotes en Miel. This beloved traditional dish combines the tangy essence of jocote fruit with the rich sweetness of honey, creating a mouthwatering symphony of taste.

Each bite unveils a delightful blend of textures, as the soft flesh of the jocotes contrasts with the smoothness of the honey glaze. With its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma, Jocotes en Miel not only tantalizes the taste buds but also captures the essence of Guatemalan culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a dessert, this exquisite treat offers a true taste of Guatemala's culinary prowess and cultural richness.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of jocote fruit
• 1 cup of panela (unrefined whole cane sugar), grated or chopped
• 2 cups of water
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1- Prepare the jocotes: Wash the jocote fruit thoroughly under running water. Cut each jocote in half and remove the seed. You can also leave the fruit whole if preferred.

2- Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine the water and panela. If using, add the cinnamon stick for extra flavor. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the panela is completely dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

3- Add the jocotes: Once the syrup is simmering, carefully add the prepared jocotes to the saucepan. Make sure the jocotes are fully submerged in the syrup.

4- Cook the jocotes: Allow the jocotes to simmer in the syrup for about 20-30 minutes, or until they are tender and the syrup has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.

5- Optional: If desired, add vanilla extract to the syrup for an extra layer of flavor. Stir gently to incorporate.

6- Serve: Once the jocotes are cooked and the syrup has thickened to your liking, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the jocotes to cool slightly before serving.

7- Enjoy: Serve the Jocotes en Miel warm or chilled, with a drizzle of the syrup over the top. These delicious treats can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert.

8- Store: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. Simply reheat before serving if desired.

This recipe captures the essence of Guatemalan cuisine, with the sweetness of the jocote fruit perfectly complemented by the rich flavor of panela syrup. Enjoy this traditional dessert as a delightful treat that celebrates the flavors of Guatemala.

Nutritional Values :

Jocote Fruit (1 pound):

• Calories: Around 300-350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 80-90 grams
• Fiber: Roughly 10-15 grams
• Sugars: Varies, but generally 60-70 grams
• Protein: Around 2-3 grams
• Fat: Minimal, less than 1 gram

benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
• High in vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
• Contains antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Provides various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, potassium, and calcium, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Panela (1 cup, grated or chopped):

• Calories: Roughly 400-450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 100-120 grams
• Fiber: Negligible
• Sugars: Varies, but typically 90-110 grams
• Protein: Minimal, less than 1 gram
• Fat: Negligible

benefits

• Contains some essential minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium, which are important for bone health, oxygen transport, and heart function.
• Provides quick energy due to its high carbohydrate content, making it a source of immediate fuel for the body.
• Compared to refined sugar, panela retains more nutrients due to minimal processing, offering a slightly healthier alternative.
• Adds sweetness and flavor to dishes without the harsh processing associated with refined sugars.

For more precise nutritional information, you may need to consult specific product labels or use a nutritional analysis tool to calculate values based on the exact quantities and brands used in your recipe.