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The culture of Paraguay dates back to the extensive marriage of Creole men and guarani women. Paraguayan culture is a fusion of two cultures and traditions, which are the European and the Guaraní one of central South America. It is estimated that 63% of Paraguayans are mestizo and the remaining group is divided into white, however, Paraguay is one of the most homogeneous countries in terms of culture. A characteristic of this cultural fusion is extensive bilingualism to this day, since around 85% of Paraguayans speak Spanish and Guaraní, Yopará, a mixture of Spanish with Guaraní, is also widely spoken.
This cultural fusion is expressed in the arts such as embroidery (ao po'i) and lace (ñandutí). The culinary heritage of Paraguay is deeply influenced by this cultural fusion, with several popular dishes that have cassava as a base ingredient, a crop of pre-Hispanic origin consumed in South America, as well as other indigenous ingredients, including corn, which a popular garnish known as Sopa paraguaya is made. Many other dishes consist of different types of cheeses, onions, bell peppers, cottage cheese, cornmeal, milk, spices, butter, eggs, and fresh corn kernels. The introduction of animal husbandry occurs in 1545, making it today the third world consumer of beef and roast meat. That is the reason why Paraguayans, from their origins, are said to be more ranchers than farmers.
Social life revolves largely around an extended family of parents, children, and blood relatives, as well as godparents. Family interests largely determine which political party they will join to, who they will marry, what kind of job they will get, or if someone will win a lawsuit, and -in some cases- it would be wise for them to emigrate for a time. Paraguayan society is characterized by its comfort and openness to tourists and foreigners. Within the family, conservative values predominate, while in the lower classes, godparents have a special relationship with the family, since they are chosen due to their favorable social position, in order to provide greater security for the godchildren. They are given particular respect in exchange for the family being able to expect protection and patronage.