The Aztec were the most powerful political force in Mesoamerica before the arrival of the Spanish in the sixteenth century. As proud imperialist, the Aztec were far from egalitarian. In terms of food, they forced groups they conquered, most of which were agriculturalist, to pay tribute, some it in food staples. Commoner women in the Aztec empire controlled local markets where they bartered and negotiated for important staples such as varies species of corn, tomatoes, and chili peppers. Mexican corn bread I really like, particularly the way Mexican cooks add fresh vegetables including chilies. Here’s a great corn bread recipe.
Mexican Cornbread Recipe:
Ingredients:
2 eggs, lightly beaten
¼ cup olive or canola oil
1 cup buttermilk
¼ cup or more of heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
1 large diced onion
1 cup fresh steamed corn
¼ cup diced green chillies
¼ cup diced red chillies
1 cup cornmeal (self-rising if available)
1/2 cup self-rising flour
¼ cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder (if self-rising flour is not available)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (if self-rising flour is not available)
1/2 teaspoon salt
Method:
Preheat oven to 350°. In large bowl combine eggs, corn oil, and buttermilk. Add shredded cheese, corn, onions, and chillies. Mix well. In small bowl mix together corn meal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add dry ingredients to egg and corn mixture. Pour into greased cast iron skillet bake for 30 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.