MEXICO ~ Spicy Aztec Chicken
The Aztecs were the Pre-Columbian Mesoamerican peoples of Mexico. Their empire was established in 1248 and lasted until 1521. By 1520, population had reached an est. 25,000,000. The Aztecs had rich and complex mythological and religious traditions. For Europeans, the most striking element was the practice of human sacrifice, which was conducted throughout Mesoamerica prior to the Spanish conquest. Aztec staple foods included maize, beans, avocados, squash, chilis and tomatoes, all prominent parts of the Mexican diet to this day. Although the early Aztec diet was mostly vegetarian, insects such as crickets, maguey worms, ants, and larvae were consumed. Insects have a higher protein content than meat, and are even now considered a delicacy in some parts of Mexico. Aztec elites also consumed human flesh, although to what extent is debated. Cacao beans were used as money and also to make xocolatl, a frothy, bitter beverage, that had little in common with modern chocolate drinks. The Aztecs also kept beehives and harvested honey. A study shows their average life expectancy was 37 (+/-3 years).
SPICY AZTEC CHICKEN
Serves 4
3 lb chicken, in large pieces
1/2 cup cornmeal
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons hot chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic
Salt to taste
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Combine cornmeal, flour, chili powder, garlic, salt and cumin. Coat chicken in this mixture. Place in a baking dish and bake for 45 minutes at 400F, turning once.
Source: "The Aztec Way" by Sonja Atkinson