Tag: Mesoamerican cuisine

Native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala, chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) were a vital crop for pre-Columbian Aztec and Mayan civilizations, dating back as far as 3500 BC. These tiny, nutritional powerhouses have a history deeply rooted in Mesoamerican culture, where they were prized for their ability to provide sustained energy and strength.

Archaeological evidence shows maize was first domesticated in Mexico over 7,000 years ago, becoming the single most important crop for the Aztec civilization. This foundational grain was the cornerstone of a complex and nutritious diet, supported by diverse agricultural techniques and ingenuity to sustain their large urban populations.