A guide to preparing Ceremonial Cacao the Mayan way

Beyond a simple beverage, ceremonial cacao* held a sacred place in Mayan practices and ceremonies, offering a profound connection to the spiritual realm. In this article, we will explore the steps involved in preparing cacao in the traditional Mayan way. This process goes beyond the mere act of making a drink, encompassing a rich spiritual experience. We hope this process inspires you to create a meaningful cacao ritual within the comfort of your home.

Use natural or artisanal Mayan tools

The process begins with a ritualistic act – lighting the fire, this is where they cook the cacao. In the Mayan tradition, this isn't just about convenience; it's a symbolic gesture that carries the essence of ancient wisdom. The fire is kindled with firewood, a practice instilled with special significance through generations. Artistry extends to the tools used in the process. Mayans used artisanal utensils like clay pots and clay jugs to keep the quality of the cacao intact.

We understand that cooking over a wooden fire might not be practical for many. However, consider incorporating authenticity into your experience by using traditional utensils. Explore our Mayan Market for natural tools like traditional Mayan cups (jicaras) or beautiful Molinillos sets to prepare your cacao in the traditional way.

Choose your intensity

Once the water reaches the optimal temperature (not yet boiling), introduce the cacao. Our Ceremonial Cacao paste (+LINK), available in a 0.5 Lb or 227g size, is perfectly suited for a special gathering of 10 to 15 people. If you are preparing a cup for one person only, feel free to cut the paste beforehand. The Maya recommends a quantity of approximately 20 grams of cacao, though the amount can be adjusted based on your personal taste and preferences. Whether preparing for a group or an individual, thorough mixing and dilution with a wooden utensil are essential to ensure our cacao paste dissolves and integrates seamlessly into the water.

In savoring our traditional Mayan cacao, let's relish the rich flavors and the cultural journey it represents. As we enjoy this special beverage, may we fill ourselves with abundant energy and use this time to connect with our loved ones, especially during the festive holiday season. Beyond the realm of a simple drink, this process transcends into a profound cultural exploration—a gateway to ancient wisdom and a heartfelt tribute to the traditions of a civilization that held the cacao bean in reverence, recognizing it as more than just an ingredient. May each sip remind us of the deep-rooted heritage we share and the timeless legacy encapsulated in every cup of Mayan cacao. 

Cheers to beautiful moments of joy, connection, and cultural celebration!

*It is important to mention that, in the Maya tradition, there is no such thing as ceremonial cacao. While it has always held a special place in the Geocosmovision and has been deemed sacred since ancestral times, the term "ceremonial" cacao is very new and does not originate from Maya nations. We only use this term to make it more understandable, but we want to highlight that this is not a part of the tradition.