Salsa is unmistakably one of the first things people think about when they stop to consider the national foods of Honduras - and with good reason.
Although the salsa itself is considered a condiment rather than an actual dish, it does accompanied most if not all of the nationally recognized specialties of the area.
As such, there are all different kinds of salsa - and just as many dishes to go with it.
Honestly, the possibilities are absolutely endless - and so mouthwatering that you might want to grab a napkin before you continue reading! You cannot really talk about the national foods of Honduras without considering what, for all intents and purposes, is the national salsa of the reason: chismol salsa.
This is definitely a national favorite and it is used to enhance a variety of sumptuous, savory delicacies.
It is quite unlike the salsa most Anglo residents of the United States are used to, especially if your idea of salsa is that it absolutely has to be fiery and hot.
In addition to the ingredients you would expect - tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, etc.
- chismol contains quite a few surprises.
It has cucumbers, lime or lemon juice, and fresh cilantro.
It also contains mangoes, to give it a surprising bit of sweetness.
And what particular national foods of Honduras does this sweet but savory salsa go with, usually? Basically, whatever you like! Honduran food itself is something of a mystery.
It has a strong Spanish base, which is infused with both Mayan and Mexican cuisine.
Still, the name of the game here is filling and hearty.
As such, the people frequently use salsa to give their hearty food a bit of spice and pizazz.
For instance, chismol is frequently used in carne asada, which is pretty close to the top spot when it comes to picking one single national food of Honduras.
The people of this part of Central America love meats of all kind, chicken, fish, and other types of seafood - and they love to dress it up with salsa.
Salsa also makes a great appetizer when paired with homemade corn chips and tortillas.
In some cases it is also considered a dip.
After all, what is the better way to improve on an already delectable dish like baleadas? Baleadas are a dish comprised of refried beans served between flour tortillas.
Dipping this delicacy into some salsa that has been sweetened with mangoes is sure to make your taste buds tingle and sing! Although designed to be filling in a "stick to your ribs" kind of way, Honduran cuisine is by no means boring.
The salsa included in the national foods of Honduras often comes as a surprise - ultimately a pleasant one.
In a way, it is almost mischievous.
You are going along, eating your meal, and suddenly get a bite of this sweet but savory stuff.
It is like your Honduran hosts are letting you know that they, too, are full of secret excitement - you just have to find it! To start preparing salsa straight away grab some Honduran recipes.