What was cacao used for in Aztec society?

Cacao held significant importance in Aztec society, primarily as both a beverage and a form of currency. The Aztecs prepared a frothy, bitter drink made from cacao beans, often seasoned with spices or sweetened with honey. This beverage was highly valued among the elite and consumed during rituals, ceremonies, and feasts, highlighting its cultural and social significance.

Additionally, cacao beans were used as a form of currency, facilitating trade and economic transactions. They were so valued that they were even used to pay tribute to the Aztec emperors. This dual role of cacao underscores its central place in Aztec life, intertwining social, economic, and cultural aspects.