How to make a Salvadoran Alguashte

If you are looking for a quick and nutricious recipe that will add flavor from El Salvador to almost any meal, alguashte is a great solution. Alguashte is a pumpkin seed seasoning that is commonly found on: mangos verdes, atol shuco, and other Salvadoran foods. Depending on the area of El Salvador, many different variations of alguashte can be found. Learn to make this two ingredient alguashte recipe, and your meals at home or on the go will never be without sabor de El Salvador!

I had the pleasure of also sharing this recipe with Serious Eats in September of 2020. Salvi representation is so important. If this recipe helps you, please consider leaving a comment on their website to support the demand for more Salvadorian content on their platform.

Recipe Info

Total Time- 15 mins Yield- 1/2 cup

Active Time- 10 mins Servings- 24

Ingredients

• 1/2 (1 1/2 ounces; 45g) cup whole hull-on pumpkin seeds

• 2 teaspoons (8g) kosher salt

Special Equipment

• High-powered blender or spice grinder

• Fine-mesh-strainer

Directions

1. In a medium stainless-steel or cast iron skillet, toast pumpkin seeds over a medium heat, stirring and tossing frequently, until seeds have browned lightly in spots and have a lightly roasted aroma- about 5 minutes. Transfer the seeds to a small plate or bowl and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes.

2. Using a high-powered blender or a spice grinder, grind the toasted pumpkin seeds to a fine powder. Using a fine-mesh strainer set over a bowl, sift the powder to remove any larger fibrous pieces. Regrind the powder if necessary. Mix the powder with salt until it is well incorporated.

Storage

Alguashte can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.