Arriving in Russia on June 9 to prepare for the 2018 World Cup, the Portuguese team was ceremonially welcomed by the host country.

Bread dipped in salt – a dish that confuses Cristiano Ronaldo in Russia

Video: RT.

The guests cautiously accepted and laughed about the unusual dish, but few people knew that this was an ancient Russian tradition when having distinguished guests come to the house, according to Russia Beyond.

Bread is everything

In Russia, guests are always warmly welcomed.

Since ancient times, bread and salt have been symbols of prosperity and health.

Bread in Slavic culture is considered a sacred thing: No bread in the kitchen means there is nothing left to eat in the house, there is no meal without bread.

England was also welcomed by the host country with salted bread in the hands of coach Gareth Southgate, while captain Harry Kane received a gold-plated tea pot on behalf of the England team.

Share a loaf of bread

Today, the world no longer lacks salt – an expensive spice in the Middle Ages, so much so that not everyone can spend money to buy it.

At the end of the 19th century, the salt tax was abolished, so people could buy this basic spice.

If someone wants to insult the homeowner, they just need to sprinkle salt on the floor to show contempt.

Traditionally, guests are often offered a round loaf of bread placed on a white towel by girls dressed in national clothes, with a small pot of salt on top.

Russians also have the expression `eating the whole put of salt together` (one putty equals 16.38 kg), to refer to people who have gone through many ups and downs together.

Former US Secretary of State John Kerry enjoyed salted bread when visiting Russia in 2013. Photo: Flickr.

Banish evil spirits

Since ancient times, hospitable hosts have also been called khlebosolnye (in Russian, khled means bread, and sol means salt).

Salt was once used to verify whether a guest was a human or a demon.

Today, bread with salt is still very popular at official receptions, as well as many restaurants with foreign diners.

After the wedding ceremony, the bride and groom will break a piece of bread and dip it in a jar of fine salt before eating.

Traditional Russian wedding

Video: Forever Video.

Pham Huyen