The Maya ate very well. They hunted wild turkey, deer, ducks, and even monkey. They caught fish. They ate bird eggs. They grew sweet potatoes, corn, beans, chilies, and squash.

Corn was called maize. Out of all their foods, maize was the most important. They made corn flour and used it to make tortillas and other kinds of breads.

Women had charge of cooking the daily meals, which usually were composed of maize, beans, and squash, plus whatever else they served.

Women made and painted gourds for cooking and serving food. They also tended the kitchen garden and took care of the cattle.