From Sweet To Savory, Maple Syrup From Canada Is A Staple In This R.D.’s Pantry

Megan Roosevelt (MR): Not all maple syrup is created equal! Unlike mass produced syrups which can contain added sugars and artificial sweeteners, real maple syrup is made from only one ingredient: 100% pure maple syrup. Pure maple syrup from Canada is a natural sweetener that is derived directly from the maple tree’s sap that has one source, mother nature, and one ingredient, 100% pure maple syrup.

MR: Unlike most sweeteners on the market, pure maple syrup contains a bonus of vitamins and minerals! I have been a fan of maple syrup for years and I love the rich flavor and boost of nutrients in my recipes.

Pure maple syrup is an excellent source of manganese. One serving (two tablespoons) carries 35 percent of the daily value of manganese. This mineral plays many important roles in the body including the processing of cholesterol, carbohydrates, and protein, and may also be involved in supporting bone formation. Pure maple syrup is also a good source of riboflavin–one serving contains 15 percent of the daily value. Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, plays an important role in the growth, development, and function of cells in the body, red blood cell production, and supporting the release of energy from proteins.

Additional nutrients in pure maple syrup include calcium, thiamin, potassium and copper. In addition to these nutrients, scientists have discovered more than 67 different plant compounds or polyphenols, nine of which are unique to pure maple syrup. One of these polyphenols, named Quebecol, naturally forms when the sap is boiled to produce maple syrup.

MR: You ‘ll be able to taste the difference! Pure maple syrup has a deep, rich flavor compared to singularly sweet pancake syrup. I love the rich and full flavor of pure maple syrup for both sweet and savory recipes!

MR: Sweet recipes are likely what people imagine when thinking of uses for maple syrup. A classic use for maple syrup is as a topping on pancakes or waffles! However, maple syrup can be used as a sweetener in so many recipes such as energy bites, granola, and granola bars, or baked goods such as cookies, cakes, and cupcakes. But it doesn’t end there: It’s great in jams, sauces, beverages, cocktails, mocktails, and more! Two of my favorite recipes to make for my family that use pure maple syrup as a sweetener are these Maple Apple Cinnamon Bites and these Pumpkin, Maple, Nut and Seed Muffins!

MR: Maple syrup is a great sweetener option for homemade savory sauces, glazes, marinades, and salad dressings. I love using maple syrup when making savory sauces or dressings for entrees such as this Maple Tempeh “Bacon” Brussels Sprouts Salad or this Maple Blackberry Marinade!

MR: What I find fascinating is that 72 percent of maple syrup production worldwide is produced in Quebec, Canada! The Quebec Maple Syrup Producers (QMSP) was founded in 1966 to help protect the integrity of maple production and help promote the benefits of real maple syrup. When shopping for maple syrup, turn the bottle to read the ingredient list. Pure maple syrup will have just one ingredient, maple syrup, and/or the 100% pure designation.