Tejate is a non-alcoholic
maize and
cacao beverage traditionally made in
Oaxaca,
Mexico, originating from pre-Hispanic times. It remains very popular among the indigenous
Mixtec and
Zapotec peoples, especially in rural areas. It is also very popular for anyone who lives in
Oaxaca and the surrounding regions. Principal ingredients include toasted
maize flour, fermented
cacao beans,
mamey pits and
flor de cacao (also known as
rosita de cacao). These are finely ground into a paste. The paste is mixed with water, usually by hand, and when it is ready, the flor de cacao rises to the top to form a pasty foam. It can be served as-is or with some sugar syrup to sweeten it. The drink is served cold.