Pupusas originate from El Salvador and Honduras, with both countries claiming to be the birthplace of this traditional dish. The pupusa is closely linked to the indigenous Pipil people of El Salvador, who are believed to have created it over 2,000 years ago. The name "pupusa" is thought to come from the Pipil or Nahuatl language, meaning "swollen" or "stuffed," reflecting its filled nature

. Historically, pupusas were made by the Pipil tribes in pre-Columbian El Salvador, and archaeological evidence of their preparation has been found in El Salvador, including at the site known as Joya de Cerén, which preserved food and cooking materials from nearly two thousand years ago

. The dish has evolved over time, incorporating new ingredients introduced during Spanish colonization, such as pork and cheese, but its core-corn masa filled and cooked on a griddle-has remained consistent

. While Honduras also claims the pupusa, the Salvadoran claim has been internationally recognized, especially after trade negotiations where Honduras conceded the right to El Salvador to exclusively export pupusas

. In summary, pupusas are a traditional thick griddle cake or flatbread originally from El Salvador, with deep roots in the indigenous Pipil culture, and also associated with Honduras