Penza maple syrup and the first Russian maple growers. Maple syrup Maple syrup

The product is produced mainly in Canada. And, of course, Canadians simply adore their national delicacy. Use it with pancakes, fruits, fresh vegetables and ice cream. And it is made from sugar maple sap by evaporation. To get at least a liter of product, you will have to send up to 50 liters of juice for processing. In color, it can turn out amber, dark and even light. It should be stored in a dark and fairly cool room.

There are many varieties of maple. And only a few of them can be used to produce maple syrup. This product was first mentioned in ancient books dating back to 1760.

They are talking about maple trees that grow in Canada. That it produces a refreshing juice suitable for sugar production. But at the same time with this same information, there is a statement that long before the discovery of the American continent, the indigenous Indians used maple sap.

But in the 18th century, changes occurred in sugar production: they began to grow sugar cane in large quantities, from which it is easier and of course cheaper to produce sugar. Nevertheless, this maple syrup continues to be made, although in small quantities, and not only in Canada.

Back in the USSR, research was carried out on the production of a similar product from Norway maple, which grows in the Leningrad region, in the Republic of Tatarstan and Bashkiria.

Maple syrup - what and how is it made from in Canada?

Real maple syrup is made in Canada. This product, like the tree itself, are symbols of this country and several other states in the United States. The maple leaf is used as a national emblem; everyone has probably seen the image of a leaf on the uniform of the Canadian hockey team.

Maple for real syrup grows only in America, or rather in its northern part. The sap was originally collected and used by the continent's indigenous people. A little later, European settlers joined them, and they began to actively improve methods of extracting and processing the product.

But not a single gram of granulated sugar was used in production, and this continues to this day. On average, 40 liters of sap can make 1 liter of maple syrup.

Currently, 80 percent of the syrup is produced in the province of Quebec, which is located in Canada. Exports of this product amount to more than $145 million per year. Conventionally, syrup can be divided into an American product and a traditionally Canadian one. By the way, special supervision by the state has been established over the authenticity of the latter.

Maple sap is collected in the earliest spring, that is, the collection begins at the end of January and ends in April. This period is conventionally called the “crying of plants.” We can observe the same period in our country in the example of birches, white and Norway maples.

Harvesting begins during the period of bud swelling, when daytime temperatures rise above zero and drop below zero at night. It is at this time that the maple gives off a large amount of sweet sap.

But the best time comes in March, when the maple produces its sweetest sap. To collect raw materials in the maple trunk, you need to drill a hole of small depth from 2 to 5 cm, with a diameter of about 1.5 cm. Then insert a special tube into the hole, through which the juice will flow into the placed containers.

After which the resulting liquid is evaporated, it thickens and turns into syrup. The product is evaporated on flat and fairly large surfaces, which are heated to a certain temperature.

How sweets are made in Russia

In our country, syrup is produced in the Leningrad region. The manufacturing method is not at all different from the Canadian version. Raw materials are extracted from maples growing in Russia.

In total, we have about 25 varieties: holly, Tatarian, Manchurian, yellow, white, green-winged, light, field, etc. From the sap of these trees, raw materials for the Russian product are obtained.

Benefits and harms

Perhaps no other syrup has been devoted to so many articles. None causes so much controversy about its usefulness and perceived harm. After all, it is a healthy alternative to regular sugar and jam.

According to experts, the product is healthy, just like natural honey, but it has an obvious advantage - it contains less sweetness, and therefore less sugar. The maple product boasts a set of vitamins, minerals, magnesium, calcium, iron, sodium, phosphorus, and antioxidants.

Entire articles are devoted to the medicinal properties of this product, and modern doctors recommend it as an effective means for the prevention of many diseases. Such as atherosclerosis, liver and pancreas diseases, metabolic disorders and heart problems.

It is no coincidence that maple syrup is so actively used all over the world. It is really useful for all people, except for allergy sufferers and those on a diet. No other harmful effects on the body have been identified.

Use in cooking

For Canadians, maple syrup is a special source of pride. It is eaten with baked goods, ice cream, waffles, cheesecakes, pancakes, fruit salads, with any desserts, used in the preparation of various sauces, main courses, in cooking instead of sugar, and made into delicious lollipops and sweets.

By the way, the product can be used not only in cooking, but also for medical purposes to prevent tumors and improve immunity.

Price, what to replace syrup with

The syrup is commonly found in American-style recipes. If you really want to cook it, but don’t have maple syrup, then you can completely replace it with natural honey. If you have some liquid May acacia honey that is never candied, that would be great.

The second replacement option is, of course, less interesting, but also quite appropriate. This is pear jam syrup.

Homemade recipe

If you really want to make maple syrup yourself, then no problem. Extract maple sap from Norway maple, of course, only in early spring, when the air is just starting to warm up.

Select an old maple tree, drill a hole or make a small recess, install a triangular trough in it, and place a container under it to collect the liquid.

To prepare the delicacy, pour the collected juice into a saucepan, then place it on high heat to evaporate. For example, three liters of liquid will evaporate for at least 1.5 hours. When the excess water evaporates, what you need is left - a thick syrup.

Beneficial features

Scientists say maple syrup can be called a superfood, like blueberries or tea leaves. It contains 54 useful substances that keep the body healthy. By the way, five of these components are absolutely unique and cannot be found anywhere else.

In addition, this product does not increase blood sugar, unlike other sweet foods. It also contains a group of polyphenols, which belong to the group of powerful antioxidants.

Another substance was found in the product, which was named “Quebecol” in honor of the province where it is made; thanks to this substance, according to doctors, the problem of diabetes can be solved.

The syrup is rich in potassium, magnesium and zinc. By the way, it contains more of the latter than honey. It is interesting to know that this particular microelement is needed for the growth of “tails” in male reproductive cells; thanks to these tails, sperm move, and men can have a child.

In this article we are talking about such a unique product as maple syrup. It is made from the sap of the sugar maple tree and is a natural sweetener. Maple syrup contains no preservatives, no flavors, and no added sugar. This is a truly environmentally friendly product, rich in minerals and vitamins.

In Russia, unfortunately, this product is not yet as popular as, for example, in Canada or the USA. In these countries, it is served as an addition to various dishes - waffles, pancakes, ice cream, candies, all kinds of sauces are prepared from it, and seasoned in vegetable and meat dishes. For Canada, as you know, the maple is even a national symbol. 90% of the syrup is extracted in this country. The main production facilities are concentrated in the province of Quebec. Canadians even established a holiday dedicated to this product. It's called "Sugar Shack Day."

The North American Indians knew about maple syrup. They replaced sugar with it and prepared refreshing drinks. The first settlers from Europe immediately liked it.

Getting juice

Now, to obtain this product, almost all the same processes are used as before. Harvesting is carried out in the spring, it is at this time that maple sap is most useful and has excellent taste. A small depression is made in the tree trunk, into which a special tube is inserted, through which the liquid will flow into the container. It’s very reminiscent of collecting birch sap in our area. One tree can serve as a source of maple sap for many, many years. It doesn't harm him in any way. Next, the syrup is prepared.

To get 1 liter of syrup you need about 40 liters of juice. Its consistency is similar to fresh honey. May be transparent or translucent with an amber tint.

What are the health benefits of maple syrup?

Recently, American scientists from Rhode Island conducted an interesting study. His results showed that maple syrup contains 54 useful elements. At the same time, the researchers do not exclude that they could even miss something. All these components benefit the human body.

Maple syrup also contains unique substances that are no longer found in the natural environment. For example, this is not a well-known Quebecol. Chemists attributed it to the so-called phenolic group of compounds. Thanks to this element, maple syrup has a sweet taste, but is not at all harmful to diabetics.

Fact! Despite the fact that this product is rich in carbohydrates, its glycemic index is very low.

Beneficial features:

1. Abscisic acid, which this product is rich in, has a positive effect on the pancreas, stimulating its work, accelerating the release of insulin. Scientists hope that over time, maple syrup may become the basis for medicines for this organ.
2. Maple syrup has also shown itself to be effective in combating inflammatory processes that affect various organs. It helps cleanse the circulatory system and even kills cancer cells. This amazing product has a positive effect on the human immune system and slows down the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
3. Maple syrup is especially beneficial for the stronger half of humanity. The fact is that it reduces the risk of prostate cancer and increases potency. And all thanks to the fact that this product contains a lot of zinc and manganese.
4. Maple syrup has also been proven to have a positive effect on heart health.
5. Some people use it externally to improve the condition of their skin.

Maple syrup is an excellent alternative to jam or preserves, which do not bring much benefit to our health. And sometimes they even harm him. Residents of Canada will confirm this, because they eat it almost every day.

How to choose a quality product?

When purchasing maple syrup, you need to be careful to get a truly high-quality product. It must be made in Canada. Only in this state there is a special body that strictly controls manufacturers and does not put low-quality products on the market. It is desirable that the syrup be light. Then it has a more subtle aroma and taste. If a liter of maple syrup costs less than $70, then most likely you are looking at a low-quality product. It is better not to save in this case.

Maple syrup for weight loss

In addition to maple syrup, you will also need lemon, cayenne pepper (chili) and plain water. Mix a glass of water with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and 1/6 spoon of cayenne pepper. You need to drink about ten glasses of this mixture per day. In addition, some also take a laxative. Before going on such a diet, it would still be better to consult your doctor so as not to harm your health.

In what cases can maple syrup be harmful?

In order for the use of maple syrup to bring only benefits, you do not need to abuse it. If you eat it in exorbitant doses, you can raise your blood sugar to dangerous levels and even give yourself diabetes. You also need to remember that maple syrup, although it contains a lot of useful substances, it will not replace you, for example, with fruit. Watch your portion sizes and buy only quality products.

Video: maple syrup - a Canadian dessert

Looks like you're about to make maple syrup at home and want to know the best way to do it? Need a recipe for making maple syrup at home? Then, to draw your own conclusions, read the detailed instructions on how to

Maple syrup: benefits and contraindications

Maple sap and syrup improve immunity; they contain many organic acids and phytohormones. This helps the body fight cancer and activates the pancreas. It is an excellent antioxidant and increases potency. The antioxidants contained in maple syrup are similar to those found in red wine, tomatoes, berries, wheat sprouts, and flax seeds. A quarter glass of syrup contains more calcium than the same amount of milk, and more potassium than bananas. Recent studies have found that regular consumption of maple syrup has a beneficial effect on liver function.

The amount of minerals contained in maple syrup is simply off the charts, so its benefits to the body cannot be overestimated. In terms of usefulness, it is even higher than honey. And, unlike honey, to which many people are allergic, maple syrup is hypoallergenic. The Canadian dessert contains Mg, Fe, F, Mq, Ca, Na, C, Zn, K, Mn, as well as vitamin B complex and polyphenols. Useful for people of all ages, both children and the elderly and pregnant and lactating women. No harm to health was detected.

Contraindications: not identified. In some cases, there may be rare allergic reactions, because... It is, after all, a plant product. Do not overindulge in sweets and beware of counterfeits!

Homemade maple syrup recipe

— The video shows in detail how to make maple syrup at home, so that there is no doubt that maple syrup can be made, but it is hardly necessary.

The viscous golden syrup made from maple sap has become a true symbol of Canada, spreading throughout the world as an excellent component of many dishes. It is especially good in combination with desserts; for example, Canadians themselves love to pour it over fluffy pancakes, which they usually prepare for breakfast. Ice cream with this syrup or a variety of baked goods based on it would not be the worst option, and some people will also like meat in a sweet sauce. How is this unusual delicacy produced and is it healthy to eat?

History of appearance

Mentions of how to prepare maple syrup first appeared in 1760. The production technology was invented by the indigenous inhabitants of the mainland - the Indians. There is even an old legend dedicated to this dish. A young Indian was practicing throwing his tomahawk near a maple tree. Sap began to ooze from the marks left on the tree. The Indian's sister collected it and tried to use it in cooking. Everyone liked the unusual sweet taste. This is how the story of the main Canadian delicacy began. Every spring, the Indians stocked up on syrup for the year ahead; they had no sugar, and maple sap was the only sweetener available. They eventually shared the recipe with the colonists. Since what the syrup is made from, namely sugar maples of a special variety, is found only in Canada, the delicacy has become a real national treasure.

What it is?

In order to produce natural maple syrup, you need to thicken the sap of a special type of tree.
Per liter of the final product, from thirty to fifty liters of raw materials are required, which cannot but affect the cost. The quality of what maple syrup is made from makes a huge difference. Suitable maples include black, red, silver and sugar maples. It is they, especially the latter, that contain the required concentration of sugar in their juice. Such trees grow in North America, mainly in Canada, which is why their syrup is considered the best. It is important that all necessary technologies are followed during production. So, to obtain juice, the maple must be mature, over forty years old. During the season, you can get about twelve liters of raw material from it every day for fifty years. Immediately after collection you need to start cooking the syrup. When boiled, the juice thickens naturally and without any additional components, transforming into a mouth-watering product loved by many people around the world.

Secrets of production

Harvesting the stuff that maple syrup is made from requires special weather conditions. You need to start the procedure in late winter or spring, when the temperature during the day is above zero and at night drops to sub-zero levels. This weather stimulates maximum circulation of sap in the tree. As a rule, this is the end of February and the first weeks of March. Spring juice is considered the sweetest. At a height of thirty centimeters from the ground, holes or notches are made on the trunk, and grooves with tubes are inserted into them, through which the juice flows into containers. After this, the production process begins. How is maple syrup made? Quite a long time, this is what greatly increases its cost. The juice is completely liquid, like water; in addition, it contains a small amount of sugar - no more than two percent. During processing, it undergoes thorough step-by-step purification and thickens when evaporated in huge but flat containers. No sugar or other ingredients are added. Thus, what maple syrup is made from and what is obtained as a result are completely natural products without additives. A government commission monitors the production process, so the Canadian dessert is guaranteed to meet the highest standards.

Features of maple syrup

Despite the fact that it is a dessert, maple sap also contains considerable benefits. The syrup contains a significant amount of calcium and iron, as well as vitamin B. It is worth considering that there are also imitations that have nothing useful in them. A cheap product that says on the packaging that it is maple-flavored syrup is not worth buying. You need to look for a bottle with a maple leaf, which is a kind of sign of quality. The label should be marked with a letter from A to D. This marking indicates the intensity of the syrup: AA will be very light, A will be light, B will be medium, C will be amber, and finally the letter D can be found on the darkest and thickest product.

Medicinal properties

Even without knowing the benefits of maple syrup, you can happily add it to your food. However, given its invaluable benefits, you will want to do this even more often. Of course, maple sap stimulates the immune system, charges the body with energy, serves as an antioxidant, slows down the development of atherosclerosis, has a beneficial effect on potency, fights cancer, and reduces the likelihood of obesity and diabetes. The syrup has a low glycemic index, in addition, it contains no fat at all. The high level of phenolic compounds and the content of large amounts of organic acids help the body fight the formation of cancer cells. In addition, the syrup contains phytohormones that stimulate the pancreas.

Mineral composition

In terms of mineral content, maple syrup, the beneficial properties of which are already quite widely known, surpasses even honey. The Canadian dessert contains magnesium, iron, phosphorus, manganese, calcium, sodium, potassium, zinc, vitamin B complex and many polyphenols. Maple syrup contains little sugar, honey contains more. In addition, the first contains not sucrose, but dextrose, which is much more beneficial for the body. The use of maple syrup will be an excellent solution during a diet, since its calorie content is very low. It is suitable for both diabetics and allergy sufferers. A serving of sixty milliliters will provide your body with the daily requirement of manganese, a third of vitamin B2, noticeable shares of zinc, magnesium, potassium and calcium. The multivitamin content is exactly what maple syrup does. Combined with excellent taste, this feature makes the product an ideal choice.

Benefits for the liver

Scientists have determined the properties of maple syrup and come to the conclusion that, among other things, it perfectly heals the liver. A diet containing this product reduces the levels of harmful enzymes in the blood and suppresses the production of ammonia. Scientists fed rats natural maple syrup for eleven days, and by the end of the experiment, the condition of the rodents amazingly improved. Some kind of liver dysfunction occurs in every fourth person, especially in middle-aged people who are prone to drinking alcohol and being overweight. The complex of useful components of maple syrup allows you to take preventive measures and significantly improve your health.

Other maple sap products

Since what maple syrup is made from is an extremely useful raw material, it is not surprising that other products are made from it. For example, in Canada, special honey and sugar are made from maple sap. Such products have a high cost, so the scale of production is small, however, you can buy and try them. Both sugar and honey from maple sap are healthier than conventional analogues. More accessible and widespread are a variety of syrup-based products that are very popular in North America. These include breakfast cereals, butter, and jelly, as well as a real variety of all kinds of sweets, from caramel to toffees and chocolates. All of them will seem very tasty to those who love the rich and bright taste of maple sap. Of course, they are less beneficial than pure syrup, but buying such treats as a souvenir or just occasionally eating them in moderation is quite reasonable.

Baking with maple syrup

To experience the true rich Canadian taste as vividly as possible, try making cupcakes. Take 2 chicken eggs, 100 grams of fresh butter, 225 milliliters of maple syrup, 3 or 4 apples, 2.5 cups of flour, a tablespoon of baking powder, a teaspoon of table salt, the same amount of cinnamon and nutmeg. Immediately turn on the oven and preheat it to one hundred and seventy degrees. Beat the eggs, adding butter. Pour syrup into the mixture and add finely chopped apples, mix everything thoroughly. Sift flour with baking powder and spices into the dough, mix and place in molds. Bake for twenty minutes, after which the fragrant muffins will be ready to serve. Bon appetit and good mood!

Composition, calorie content

Of all the beneficial substances, we will highlight only the main ones:

• polyphenols,
• B vitamins,
• potassium,
• manganese,
• antioxidants,
• coumarin,
• abscisic acid,
• zinc,
• thiamine,
• sodium,
• oligosaccharides,
• phosphorus,
• phenolic group of compounds,
• iron,
• amino acids,
• organic acids,
• calcium.

Maple syrup is a healthy food product. Recommended for use in diabetes and obesity. There is practically no fructose, and there is much less sugar than in honey.

Calorie content of 100 g of product is 260 kcal.

Benefits of syrup and effects on the body

1. A great alternative to sugar.
2. Maple syrup has been proven to help treat inflammatory conditions.
3. Thanks to the record content of nutrients, the immune system is stimulated.
4. The product normalizes digestive and metabolic processes and improves intestinal motility.
5. Inhibits invasion and growth of colorectal cancer cells by suppressing one of the signaling pathways.
6. Controls insulin secretion.
7. The circulatory system is cleansed and the formation of cholesterol plaques is prevented.
8. The leader in the amount of potassium and calcium, therefore it is recommended for children during the period of active growth.
9. Promotes rejuvenation, prevents aging processes.
10. Positively affects the functioning of the pancreas and liver.
11. An excellent aphrodisiac for men, enhancing potency.
12. It is a preventative against the development of cancer.
13. Regular consumption normalizes cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels.
14. Has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system.
15. Protects the gastric mucosa from the effects of negative factors.
16. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, regenerating, wound-healing properties.
17. Prevents the development of atherosclerosis.
18. Relieves fatigue, indicated for increased mental or physical stress.
19. Does not cause allergies, unlike bee products.
20. Strengthens hair and nails.

The beneficial properties of the product are incredibly diverse. It is no coincidence that many popular weight loss diets have been developed on its basis.

Use in cooking

Maple syrup is a great substitute for sugar. It can be used in the preparation of drinks, confectionery sweets, baked goods, creams, to sweeten coffee, tea, and as a substitute for jams, marmalade, preserves.

The product is a universal product that improves the taste of meat dishes. In America, it is used in the preparation of vegetables, legumes, omelettes, grilled meat, and fish dishes. Particularly popular are lollipops that resemble our “cockerels”. This is an excellent addition to pancakes, pancakes, toasters, ice cream, and sweet cereals.

There is a recipe for a very tasty drink. Mix two tablespoons of maple syrup in a glass of cold milk. It makes a great refreshing cocktail.

How to choose a quality product

There are many criteria when choosing maple syrup. Let us highlight the main ones.

1. A quality product made in Canada. It is there that syrup of proven quality, authentic, and as pure as possible is produced. If the country of origin is Canada, but the syrup is packaged in another country, you are looking at a high-quality fake.
2. Pay attention to the price. If 1 liter costs less than $70, you should refuse to buy.
3. The fresh product does not have a strong pronounced taste and is transparent.
4. The taste is caramel with a soft woody taste. The aroma is pronounced. Consistency – medium thickness.
5. The lighter the amber hue, the more pronounced the aroma and taste.

There is a special classification system by which you can select a product.

• The best and most popular is Canada #1 (used for medicinal and dietary purposes).
• Group Canada #2 is widely used in cooking; the syrup in this case is darker.
• The thickest in consistency and having the most pronounced taste is Canada #3 maple syrup, used as a sweetener.

You are unlikely to find real maple syrup in stores. Counterfeits consist of fructose and corn syrup. You can buy genuine products only in specialized online stores.

How to store it correctly

The product can be stored at room temperature or on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. An important condition is that the container must be hermetically sealed.
After the container is unpacked, maple syrup is poured into glass jars for storage and stored at -5-8 degrees. Shelf life is three years from the date indicated on the package.

Maple syrup is an incredibly healthy, delicious product that everyone can benefit from. Not to mention the delicious dishes with maple syrup, which are distinguished by excellent taste. Having tried it at least once, you will never forget the splendor of the aroma and taste, and you will certainly find your own use for the product.

How is maple syrup made, what can it be replaced with, and what is the composition of the product?

A product like maple syrup has been around for a long time. It was found by Europeans long before the discovery of America. The drinks were made from the natural product of maple sap. Later, over time, Europeans improved the method of extracting and processing raw materials. Until now, the extraction process has not changed, nor has the demand for it.

How to make maple syrup, what does it taste like?

As mentioned above, before making the product, juice is extracted. The period of sap extraction begins in early spring. It is during this season that the juice acquires useful and tasty properties. A small hole is made in the tree trunk, and with the help of a special tube, the liquid flows into containers fixed next to it.

The resulting liquid is evaporated. This takes several hours. In order to make one liter of syrup, you need to produce about forty liters of fresh juice. You can collect sap from one tree for decades; this process does not harm the plant.

In our country, maple sap is not collected. Extraction and processing of this product is developed in Canada and North America. This is where sugar maples are specially planted.

Basically, juice can be obtained from three types of maple: black, sugar and red. Such trees reach thirty meters in height, and their diameter can exceed one meter.

Maple syrup is a clear liquid. Like any other juice, maple is aromatic, thick and viscous. Its consistency can be compared to bee honey. It has an amber color. The harvest from this tree occurs at the end of spring. Honey, sugar and butter are produced from the juice, depending on the stage of boiling of the product.

What is maple syrup made from and how?

In America and Canada there are huge alleys with maples, which are grown specifically to extract juice. Once the sap from all the trees is collected, it is sent to a processing plant.

It goes through an evaporation process. Depending on the type of plant, this stage may take a different amount of time. In addition, it is worth noting that the product is natural, equivalent to our honey. No preservatives or dyes are used in its production..

Americans grow so many sugar maples that there is no need to speed up the evaporation process. One harvest quickly follows another. The demand for this product is constantly growing. In America it is a national product, but in our country it is an imported product from overseas.

What is in maple syrup: composition

As mentioned earlier, it made from natural raw materials. That is, it is already sold in stores without artificial additives and is one of the favorite treats of all ages.

The composition includes useful vitamins and microelements.

This delicacy is not only tasty, but also healthy. Americans consider its composition unique.

Use of syrup in cooking

Syrup from maple sap is widely used in cooking on the American continent. In Russia, this tradition is less developed, since it is not easy to find natural syrup on sale.

Maple syrup does not acquire carcinogenic properties during heat treatment, as happens with honey, so it is healthier to add it to various baked goods and hot desserts.

Syrup is used instead of jam, honey, jam, and served with pancakes, pancakes, waffles, and ice cream. They are often added to vegetable and meat dishes, used to prepare various sauces and bake bread.

How to choose maple syrup?

To choose real maple syrup, you need to carefully look at the label, which contains information about the composition of the product.

Natural syrup should not contain preservatives, dyes, flavors or other fillers. If it contains regular sugar, it is no longer a natural product, but regular sweet water, which is sold under the guise of maple sap syrup.

You can taste the quality of the syrup by its soft woody taste, transparent and viscous consistency, reminiscent of liquid honey.

What to substitute when preparing dishes?

You can replace maple syrup when preparing various culinary dishes with liquid, clear honey, syrup from pear or gooseberry jam. This will be reflected in the taste of the dishes, and a true connoisseur of American cuisine will immediately feel the substitution.

Natural maple syrup can be bought nowadays in any country. Entrepreneurs appreciate the benefits of the product and import it from Canada or produce it on their own from maple sap, which contains a high percentage of sugar.

Types of maple syrup, description and taste

The syrup has a specific, very sweet woody flavor, which is why it is so popular in cooking for sweetening dishes and making desserts.

The consistency is thick and viscous, reminiscent of honey. It has a wide range of shades - from light yellow to dark red. Color, taste and aroma depend on the time the juice is collected. The later (March-April), the darker the syrup turns out, and the richer the taste.

As a result of these differences, a product classification was created.

Composition of maple syrup

Debates about the benefits of syrup have been going on for many years. Some are convinced that this is an excellent sweetener that supports the normal functioning of the human body, while others are convinced that it is a product that is poor in composition.

Maple syrup contains vitamins IN, plus 24 antioxidants and minerals ( iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc). But to get 62% of the daily value of the vitamin AT 2, 9% calcium, 8% zinc and 5% potassium must be eaten per 100 g of product. And each tablespoon contains approximately 50 kcal and 12 g sucrose!

In addition, the syrup does not contain proteins or fats, but 100 g contains 67 g of carbohydrates.

Therefore, it is not worth adding it to your diet as a remedy. But it will be an excellent substitute for refined sugar, as it has a lower glycemic index, so it does not have such a drastic effect on blood glucose levels.

In addition, it is produced in a safe manner and does not contain harmful additives.

Maple syrup calories - 260 kcal per 100 g.

Glycemic index - 55-65.

Daily norm - 60 g for adults, 30 g for children.

Contraindications and harm

Syrup can only cause harm to humans if taken in excess. Due to its high percentage of glucose, it can lead to obesity and high blood sugar levels.

Of course, low-quality goods pose a health hazard. Therefore, you should approach its purchase responsibly.

How to Select and Store Maple Syrup

1. First of all, pay attention to the product label. Quality products are manufactured in Canada and the USA, and are marked with a golden maple leaf. The address of the farm of production must also be indicated, and the class (type of syrup) must be specified.

2. The price of the product is high. If it is below $70 for 1 liter, then this is a fake.

3. Good maple syrup is transparent or translucent in color, without cloudiness. The consistency is medium thick.

After opening the container, unlike honey, mold may form on the syrup. Therefore, it should be stored in the refrigerator on the bottom shelf. Shelf life 6-12 months. An unopened bottle can be stored in a cool place for up to 2-3 years.

How to make maple syrup at home

To make your own natural sweetener, you need to do the following:

• collect broadleaf maple sap,
• boil it over low heat until the moisture completely evaporates and the mass turns into syrup,
• cool and pour into glass containers.

Maple syrup has excellent taste. And, despite its meager composition, you can safely buy it to diversify your diet. It adds a sweet taste to dishes without harming your health.

Watch the video: Dip Lemon in Baking Soda The results will surprise you! (February 2020).

Sugar maple syrup has been a symbol of Canada for many years. The country's coat of arms depicts a pointed leaf of a tree from which the sap is extracted. This technology was invented in the 18th century, after the indigenous peoples of America realized that the liquid could sweeten food and significantly improve its taste. The benefits and harms of maple syrup are the subject of debate in North America and beyond.

What is maple syrup made from?

Sugar maple grows in the provinces of Canada. Artificial cultivation is practiced in other countries, but this approach is considered expensive, so traditionally the products are produced in North America.

The tree has a spreading crown and a thick, dense trunk. Wood is actively used for making furniture. The sap is obtained by cutting the bark and collecting the oozing liquid. The syrup is prepared using the boiling method.

Not all types of wood are suitable for cooking. The most common product is obtained from the sugar variety, which has beneficial properties that saturate the product. Red, black and holly-leaved species are considered suitable.

Industrial collection begins in maple forests in early spring using special plastic tubes.

Interesting! A special commission operates throughout the country, which establishes uniform requirements and monitors the quality and changes in the properties of products.

Appearance and taste of maple syrup

Compositions are classified by appearance. There are 2 classes of liquid. Class A:

• light amber (golden color, subtle, subtle smell);
• medium amber (rich amber color, faint woody taste);
• dark amber (dark brown liquid with a recognizable smell and taste).

Class B is a dark brown liquid with a strong odor.

Light varieties have a popcorn flavor, medium varieties resemble caramel, and dark varieties have a distinct maple syrup flavor.

Chemical composition and calorie content of maple syrup

The benefits of maple syrup for the body are determined by the properties of the components of the composition. It contains B vitamins, amino acids and minerals.

The calorie content of 100 g is 260 kcal. Compared to refined sugar, it has a lower glycemic index.

• benzoic acid;
• cinnamic acid;
• linoleic acid;
• catechin.

Sucrose in the liquid reaches 58 g, the presence of fructose is 0.5 g, glucose is 1.6 g.

The highest content is considered to be manganese, zinc and sodium. They have beneficial properties and have a general strengthening effect.

Information! From 40 liters of juice, only 1 liter of concentrate is obtained.

Beneficial properties of maple syrup

The qualities of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals make the concentrate healthier than regular refined sugar. This statement is true if you consume maple syrup in moderation.

Substances that have antioxidant properties are beneficial as protectors of cells from the effects of free radicals. Such mechanisms increase the body's defenses.

The presence of minerals and vitamins makes consumption beneficial for immunity, prevention of skin and colds.

Feature and undoubted health benefits - environmentally friendly composition, without adding impurities or preservatives.

Maple syrup for weight loss

The famous diet, which was described by Peter Glickman in the middle of the last century, was built on the basis of the concentrate. The method is not aimed at actively getting rid of extra pounds, but at removing toxins from the body. Citrus fruits are added to the menu and the volume of clean water is increased. Carbohydrate-containing dishes are completely excluded from the diet.

This diet may be harmful for those with minimal health problems. The load on the liver is characterized by increased production of pancreatic juice, so a one-component diet is contraindicated for people with pancreatic diseases.

Researchers are considering a way to completely replace any sweets with concentrate, but this approach does not lead to rapid weight loss, it only helps control carbohydrate intake.

Is maple syrup safe for pregnant and lactating women?

Experts do not recommend using syrup for pregnant women. High concentrations of substances can be harmful and have a negative impact on their health. During this period, there are risks of developing diabetic conditions, so it is necessary to exclude concentrated substitutes from the diet.

For nursing mothers, the concentrate has a risk of harm due to possible allergic reactions in the child.

Maple syrup for diabetes

Maple syrup may have benefits and contraindications for diabetes: it all depends on the patient’s condition. Diabetes requires careful analysis of the foods consumed. Type 2 disease is characterized by a relative deficiency of insulin. By replacing other sweets with syrup, blood counts can be stabilized. This property provides benefits to those who are struggling with regular diabetic conditions.

It is not recommended to consume sweets if you have type 1 diabetes, which is characterized by a complete lack of insulin. Taking sugars provokes an increase in blood counts, which leads to a deterioration in the general condition of the patient.

How to make maple syrup at home

Making your own maple syrup according to the classic recipe is a labor-intensive and expensive process. To start cooking, you need to extract maple sap. To do this, drill a hole in the tree and place a container for liquid. This technique is used during the period of sap flow. The cooking principle is evaporation over medium heat.

Information! Boiling takes several hours, and it is necessary to monitor the boiling level.

What is maple syrup used for in cooking?

In Canada, they cannot imagine serving waffles, donuts or pancakes without maple syrup. It is successfully used as a sugar substitute in baking and as a topping for.

When marinating meat and subsequent baking, maple concentrate forms an appetizing glazed crust on its surface.

The use of maple syrup for making candy and toffee is common.

It is added as the main sweetener to hot drinks: grog or punch.

Maple syrup is added to hot tea: unlike honey, when exposed to high temperatures, it does not lose its beneficial properties and does not acquire carcinogenic properties.

How to replace maple syrup in baking

The concentrate can be replaced with sugar and honey: they have similar sweetening properties. To replace with 1 part use:

• ¾ parts sugar;
• 1 part liquid honey.

Substitutes with similar physical properties can be: syrups and agaves, pear jam.

Harm of maple syrup and contraindications

You can’t talk about the benefits of syrup without mentioning the harm. Like all foods that contain high amounts of carbohydrates, it may not have beneficial properties if taken in excess. The daily norm for an adult is several tablespoons.

Consumption may be harmful to those who are hypersensitive to sugar-containing products. People who have problems with blood glucose levels should be careful.

The risk of harm to the body is increased in people suffering from intestinal diseases. The production of enzymes for digesting carbohydrates tends to increase the load on the digestive organs and, above all, on the pancreas.

How to choose maple syrup when purchasing

One of the difficulties of purchasing syrup in stores is the high cost and assortment. Not every supermarket has it in their product list. Inexpensive analogues that indicate the content of maple juice have nothing to do with a quality product.

The presence of dyes or food additives in the composition is evidence of a low-quality product, a counterfeit of the real thing.

The concentrate is usually sold in glass containers. A special feature of the release in Canada is considered to be special bottles in the shape of a maple leaf.

The color of maple syrup ranges from light amber to dark brown. The shade may vary depending on the variety. The liquid does not form sediment. Bottles must be tightly closed and not damaged.

How to Store Maple Syrup at Home

Maple sap concentrate has a long shelf life.

The sealed syrup is stored for several years at room temperature. After uncorking the bottle, to slow down the evaporation process, it is customary to pour it into a plastic container and then store it for an average of 4 months in the refrigerator (the manufacturer places specific information on the label). In this form, it does not freeze and does not lose its beneficial qualities.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of maple syrup are interrelated concepts. As a sugar substitute, this unique product may be beneficial due to its antioxidant content and lack of impurities. Excessive consumption is contraindicated and is harmful to health due to the high amount of sugars. Using this product in baking, as an additive to desserts, will diversify the diet and give dishes unique tastes.