Chocolate in Mexico

Chocolate has a long and fascinating history in Mexico. The word "chocolate" comes from the Aztec word "xocolatl", which means "bitter water". The Aztecs believed that chocolate was a gift from their gods and used it in religious ceremonies as well as for medicinal purposes.

The Aztecs made chocolate from roasted cocoa beans that were ground into a paste with water and spices such as chili and vanilla. They then mixed this paste with water to create a frothy drink that was often served hot. Chocolate was so important to the Aztecs that they even used cocoa beans as currency.

Colonial Era

When the Spanish arrived in Mexico in the 16th century, they quickly became enamored with chocolate. They brought it back to Europe where it soon became a fashionable drink among the rich and elite. However, the Spanish also made some changes to the way chocolate was prepared. They added sugar and milk to the drink, which made it much sweeter and richer than the Aztec version.

Today, Mexican chocolate is still made in much the same way as it was during the colonial era. The chocolate is made from roasted cocoa beans that are ground with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and almonds. Sugar is typically added to sweeten the chocolate, and the mixture is then formed into round disks that can be dissolved in hot water to create a delicious and traditional Mexican hot chocolate.

Modern Day

Today, chocolate is still an important part of Mexican culture. It is often used in traditional recipes such as mole, a sauce made from a combination of chilies, spices, and chocolate. Mexican chocolate is also enjoyed on its own, either as a hot drink or as a sweet snack. In fact, Mexico is now one of the largest producers of cocoa in the world, and chocolate is a major export for the country.

Mexican chocolate has also gained popularity around the world. Many chocolate makers now offer their own versions of Mexican chocolate, which often include a blend of spices and flavors unique to the country.

• Chocolate is an important part of Mexican culture and has a fascinating history that dates back to the Aztecs.
• Mexican chocolate is made from roasted cocoa beans that are ground with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and almonds.
• Sugar is typically added to sweeten the chocolate, and the mixture is then formed into round disks that can be dissolved in hot water to create a delicious and traditional Mexican hot chocolate.
• Chocolate is still an important part of Mexican cuisine and is used in traditional recipes such as mole.
• Mexican chocolate has gained popularity around the world, and many chocolate makers now offer their own versions of this unique and delicious chocolate.