WHAT IS GROUND?
GROUND is a Martaja project that takes the form of a cacao-based drink that’s prepared and bottled for you to enjoy anytime.
We know not everyone has the time to roast cacao beans, peel them, and grind them by hand, let alone source the finest Mesoamerican ingredients to create an exceptional drink.
But that doesn't mean you should miss out on the experience! We believe everyone should have the opportunity to connect with one of the most fascinating ingredients in Mexico's rich culinary heritage in a unique way. That’s where GROUND comes in.
Questions? Keep reading!
HOW MANY SERVINGS IS MY BOTTLE GOOD FOR?
We use generous amounts of high-quality ingredients, so even a small serving of GROUND can be wonderfully satisfying. Of course, everyone’s idea of the perfect cup is different, so here’s a guide:
Small (8 oz): 2–4 servings
Medium (16 oz): 4–8 servings
Large (32 oz): 8–16 servings
HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?
We’re working with food scientists to find ways to keep GROUND delicious for weeks or even months after purchase. For now, keep your bottle refrigerated and enjoy it within 5–7 days of buying it.
HOW DO I STORE IT?
Keep GROUND refrigerated and make sure the bottle is tightly sealed between servings.
HOW DO I PREPARE IT?
GROUND is ready to drink, taking the fuss out of enjoying exceptional Mexican cacao. Gently heat it in a pan for a comforting cup of hot chocolate, or pour it over ice for a refreshing cacao drink. No grinding, mixing or special equipment required!
DOES IT CONTAIN MILK?
No! GROUND is made with water rather than milk, following a long tradition of preparing Mexican cacao drinks with water.
I HAVE ALLERGIES. CAN I DRINK GROUND?
Our recipes contain none of the nine major allergens recognized in the United States: milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, crustacean shellfish or sesame. These ingredients are also not used in the space where we prepare GROUND.
However, we're a small business and cannot guarantee the complete absence of cross-contact. If you have a severe allergy, please contact us before consuming GROUND so we can discuss your specific needs.
IS IT VEGAN?
Yes! GROUND is made with a water base rather than milk, and our recipes use plant-based ingredients.
WHERE DOES THE CACAO COME FROM?
Our cacao comes from friends in the Soconusco region of Chiapas, Mexico. It belongs to the criollo variety and arrives beneficiado—a term whose meaning can vary between producers. In our supplier family's interpretation, this means the cacao undergoes a short, three-day fermentation before being washed and dried.
We love working with people who bring their own knowledge, experience and traditions to the ingredients we use.
WHERE DOES THE LIQUEUR COME FROM?
Our special-edition Pan de Muerto GROUND features liqueur made by our friends at Flor de Luna Destilería, an all-female team based in Mexico City producing a range of distilled drinks.
We love collaborating with other Mexican makers who bring their own creativity and craft to what they do.
WHY DID YOU CALL IT GROUND?
GROUND is a nod to the way we prepare our ingredients: ground by hand on stone, following techniques with deep roots in Mexican food culture.
But the name means more than that. It also reflects our desire to stay grounded in the place, ingredients, people and traditions that inspire what we make.
WHERE CAN I FIND GROUND AFTER THE FESTIVAL?
We're just getting started! GROUND is an evolving project by Martaja, and we're excited to keep exploring new recipes, formats and ways to share Mexican cacao.
Follow @martajamx on Instagram to discover what's next, hear about future releases and be part of the journey.
HAVE THOUGHTS OR QUESTIONS?
We'd love to hear from you! Tell us what you think of GROUND, which ingredients you'd like to try next, or how you enjoy your cacao. Your feedback helps us shape what comes next.