Maple syrup

Pure maple syrup made from the sap of sugar maple, red maple, or black maple trees. It is a popular natural sweetener. The sap is collected by drilling small holes into the trunk of the tree, this process is called tapping. The sap is then concentrated creating the sweet syrup we know and love.

It is important to make sure you are buying real maple syrup as products labelled maple-flavoured syrup can contain high levels of processed sugar and other undesirable ingredients!

There are many different types of maple syrup which are divided into different ‘grades’ based on its colour. All grades of pure maple syrup have the same consistency and sugar content. The difference in colour comes from when the syrup was collected. The grading system can be a bit confusing so hopefully, we can shed some light on the subject for you!

• Grade A golden colour and delicate taste – Has a light golden colour and a subtle but fragrant maple taste. It’s perfect for pouring over pancakes or waffles with bacon.
• Grade A amber colour and rich flavour – This grade has a little more flavorful you can use it as a condiment, cooking and in baking. This grade is collected toward the middle of the season as the weather warms up. Its a great addition to greek yogurt.
• Grade A dark colour and robust flavour – This grade of maple syrup has a stronger and darker amber colour. It’s great in baking as the maple syrup has a more pronounced tait’s, its fantastic in cakes and flapjacks. It can even be used as a glaze for hams and vegetables like carrots and parsnips
• Grade A very dark and strong flavour – This grade of maple syrup is a dark amber colour and it has an intense maple taste. It is quite similar to molasses. It is usually collected at the end of the season.

Maple syrup alternatives

You can substitute lighter maple syrup with honey, golden syrup and corn syrup. Dark maple syrup can be replaced by molasses.

Maple syrup nutrition

Pure maple syrup is very high in sugar but it also has numerous beneficial nutrients. It has good levels of potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and iron. Traditionally, maple syrup is considered to be good for digestion and the circulatory system.

Maple syrup contains many different antioxidants that protect your body from free radicals which cause cell damage.

Per 100g of pure maple syrup provides about 260 calories and it is completely gluten-free.

Even though maple syrup contains many beneficial nutrients it is still incredibly high in sugar. It may be a good idea to use it as a replacement for refined sugars. Its good to enjoy one and a while in moderation and as a part of a balanced diet.