Chocolate

Chocolate, everyone's favorite sweet treat, was created very early in Mayan society. They were able to create a beverage from crushed cocoa beans that were so highly valued that it was frequently used as money.

Between 250 and 900 AD, people began to realize that aged, simmered, pulverized, and blended cocoa beans tasted incredibly good. Even a "fiery" variation was created by adding stew peppers and cornmeal

They frequently poured liquor from one cup into another until a foamy froth was visible on top.

Although it sounds as tasty as modern versions, it would be unrecognizable to us today. In reality, the name "chocolate" is derived from the Mayan word "xocolatl," which means "bitter water."

Unsurprisingly to us today, the Mayans regarded chocolate so highly that they considered it a sort of "food of the Gods." Images of cocoa pods are frequently found painted on the walls of stone temples and other Mayan artifacts, typically depicting their gods ingesting it.

Cocoa was frequently eaten during religious services and wedding receptions. Cocoa could be enjoyed by all Mayans, regardless of social standing.