Honduras: People and Society

For its size, Honduras supports a widely diverse population though the ethnic distinction is not so pronounced. There are various indigenous groups though majority of the population are Mestizos (European and Indian mixed). There are eight ethnic groups in Honduras – the chortis  (descendants of the Mayas), the Lencas, the Tolupanes, the Tawahkas, the Pech, the Miskitos, the Afro-Americans and the Garifunas (Africans who were shipped to work as slaves). Each community has maintained its own culture and traditions, though interaction between the various groups has smudged the lines of distinction.

Food

The sweet tooth of the Hondurans is obvious in their variety of desserts. If you have a penchant for sweets, try the sweet rice that is soaked in coconut milk and sugar. Coconut milk is a common ingredient used frequently in Garifuna cuisine. There’s so much to sample, so much diversity, and so many names! What may be called ‘baleada’ (something like a burrito) in one region may just turn out to be a tortilla stuffed with fried beans and onions in another.  The staple food is combination of rice and beans and tortillas.  But rice and beans may not always be just rice and beans – it may be cooked in animal fat.

Fresh, fresh, seafood and lots of it is available, especially around the coastal areas. Grouper, snapper, tuna and barracuda are what you’ll find on the menu. Most fish dishes are liberally sprinkled with spices.

Honduras set a fair fiesta for the vegetarians as well. The choice is somewhat limited but there’s much to sample and savour.

Wash down your food with Salva Vida beer, the most popular drink among the Hondurans. 

Education

Of the total population, 72.7% (according to 1995 estimate) can read and write. This includes all those above the age of 15 years who can read and write.