More on Maple Syrup

Did you know that it takes almost 50 gallons of maple sap to make 1 gallon of maple syrup? The sap is harvested from maple trees and boiled until it is reduced to a syrup. It is then bottled and sold.

There are different grades, so depending on your use, one might be better than the other:

B Grade - Considered a cooking grade (great for baking). It is very dark, and similar in composition to molasses. It is typically harvested at the end of the sap season.

A Grade (dark) - Made late in the season and have a very robust flavor.

A Grade (medium) - Most popular grade for using as table syrup. It has a profound flavor and a tad darker in color than the fancy.

A Grade (fancy) - Used as table syrup. Very light amber color and a very delicate flavor. Also can be used as a topping for desserts.

It has a great color and flavor, but some are turned off by it's stronger taste and price.

I keep a bottle of it on hand and typically use it for baking purposes only. When used in cooking and baking it lends unrivaled flavor.

Don't forget, once you get it home, even if it is not opened, place in the refrigerator. It will keep for about a year.