Hot cocoa, a warm, sweet drink made from cocoa powder, sugar, and milk, is a favorite worldwide, especially during the colder months. However, did you know it has a rich history dating back to the ancient Mayan civilization? The Mayans enjoyed a drink made from ground cocoa beans, water, and chili peppers. It was far from the sweet hot cocoa we know today, but it played a crucial role in their society, often used in sacred rituals and even as a form of currency. When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they brought cocoa back to Europe. The Europeans added sugar, transforming the drink into a sweet delicacy that quickly gained popularity. Today, hot cocoa is enjoyed worldwide, with each country adding its own twist, like marshmallows in the United States or whipped cream in Europe. Did you know that Ivory Coast is currently the largest producer of cocoa beans in the world?