Category: A Visit to El Salvador

AWAKE! MARCH 2014

NEARLY 500 years ago, when the Spanish arrived in what is now El Salvador, the predominant tribe in the area called their territory Cuscatlán—a name that means “Land of the Jewel.” Today, most people in El Salvador are descendants of indigenous tribes and European settlers.

Salvadorans are known for being industrious and friendly. They are also courteous and respectful. People greet others politely before starting a conversation or when entering a business by saying,“Buenos días” (good morning) or “Buenas tardes” (good afternoon). In fact, Salvadorans in rural areas and small towns consider it rude to ignore a passerby and not say a greeting.

Coffee growing has greatly influenced the history of El Salvador

One of the foods Salvadorans enjoy most is the pupusa—a cornmeal (or rice) tortilla stuffed with cheese and beans, as well as pork or other fillings. Pupusas are often served with tomato sauce and curtido—a mixture of cabbage, carrots, onions, and spicy vinegar. Although some people use a knife and fork, the traditional way to eat pupusas is with the fingers.

Pupusas are one of El Salvador’s most popular foods