Today, let’s learn a few things about maple syrup — one of the most well-known Canadian icons!
Where does maple syrup come from?
- Maple syrup is harvested and processed from maple trees;
- Holes are drilled into the trunks of maple trees so that the sap can be collected in a container;
- The sap is then heated and filtered multiple times;
- During the process, much of the water will evaporate, leaving the concentrated syrup.
When did Canadians start to produce maple syrup?
- Maple syrup was valued and used by Indigenous peoples of North America long before the arrival of European settlers;
- The first account of maple syrup by European settlers was in 1557.
What is in maple syrup?
- Maple syrup, like any regular syrup, is very high in sugar;
- It also contains some vitamins and minerals, especially zinc and manganese.
How do we eat maple syrup?
- Drizzle some over pancakes, waffles or ice cream;
- Add some when baking sweet potatoes;
- Use it to make salad dressing. Try this maple-dijon vinaigrette;
- Use it as a glaze over salmon for a quick workday dinner, or ham or turkey for special holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas;
- And many more!
Eating too much sugar can be a leading cause of many health problems! Enjoy maple syrup in moderation. Moderation is the key!
Word of the Day:
Moderation: the avoidance of extremes. “Enjoy maple syrup in moderation” means that we should avoid eating too much maple syrup.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/maple-syrup#nutrition
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/maple-sugar-industry
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/maple
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maple_syrup
https://prezi.com/b0okippn-nxr/why-is-maple-syrup-a-canadian-icon/
