It's been around for a long time - having been utilized in the Valley of Mexico before Europeans arrived in the early 1500s.

What types of ingredients are part of the unique cuisine?

Corn (known by Aztecs as maize) was used in their dishes, as well as playing an integral part in Aztec mythology. Corn came in different varieties with various colors and textures. They used it for maize gruel, tamales and corn tortillas, among other dishes.

Aztec people also used squash, beans and some grains, including chia and amaranth, in their cooking. Maize was used in combination with their basic food, providing them a well-rounded diet.

The Aztec nation had alcoholic drinks, too. They were made from various fruit, along with honey and cacti. Cacao was used too, but only for the elite of the region. They flavored their cacao drinks with honey, chili peppers and many herbs and spices.

The diet of Aztecs included wild game and fish as vital ingredients, too. They used a variety of fowl, like turkeys, along with seafood choices of crayfish and shrimp. Their tomatoes were not the same as those we use today, but they were used in much the same way. Turn the page, let's cook as Aztecs did...