Food plays an essential part in both the ancient Mayan society and our society today. It is also one of the main components that bridges us from our past to now.
First of all, eating food was, and is, a key way to gather people together to develop relationships and eventually help develop a stronger society. For instance, the Mayan rulers would have banquets to discuss solutions for a better future, while a current man may ask a woman to marry her over dinner at Benihana.
Second of all, using many of the same ingredients connects us to the flavors used back then which greatly expressed their culture. For example, corn was a primary crop, for it grew easily in the area, as did beans, cacao beans, chiles etc. We see these basic ingredients in Mexican food, such as tortilla chips, hot chocolate, and hot and spicy foods, which both cultures enjoy.
Without food as an important value, a chunk of the ancient Mayan culture would be lost, for food is one of the most important ways to reflect what was in our past.
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