Maple syrup is one of the most unique treats that nature gives to us. Did you know that this syrup, which originates in the northern United States and in Canada, comes from native trees in the area?
This sweet syrup, which is popular on top of pancakes and french toast, comes from the sap of various varieties of the maple tree. Most commonly, maple syrup is produced with sap from the sugar maple in northern US and in Canada, whereas some outlets make it with the red maple tree in parts of the United States.
The process begins with the collection of sap from the trees. An intricate network of tubes and taps extract the sugary sap from the trees, which begins the process of making maple syrup.
After this is done, a large quantity of sap is boiled down to between 2% and 5% of its original volume in order to increase the sugar content of the sap and make maple syrup. The viscous liquid is then strained in order to remove residual solids from the process.
After this, the molasses-like syrup can be used for all kinds of things. For example, outside of french toast and pancakes, it can be used to make other interesting ingredients such as maple sugar and maple candy.
