Alguashte

Alguashte is a cherished condiment in Salvadoran cuisine, made primarily from ground pepitas (pumpkin seeds). It's remarkably versatile, enhancing both sweet and savory dishes. While many people prepare alguashte at home, it's also readily available pre-packaged or from street vendors. It's an excellent way to infuse a variety of meals and snacks with extra flavor.

One popular use of alguashte is to sprinkle it over unripe mango, giving the fruit a unique and delightful twist. It's also a key ingredient in dishes such as shuco (a Salvadoran-style hot dog) and various chicken recipes.

The name "alguashte" is derived from the Nahuatl language, in which "AYU" means juice and "JUASHTI" means seeds. Essentially, it's an adobo made from pumpkin seeds. While the precise origins of alguashte are somewhat enigmatic, it is believed to have roots in Mayan culture, as pepitas have been a staple in Mesoamerican diets for centuries.