Maple Syrup, Canada’s Most Beloved Natural Product
This beloved treat that comes from the sap of Canada’s most famous tree is synonymous with our Canadian heritage. The origins of maple syrup in Canada can be traced back to the native peoples of eastern North America. Legend has it that an Iroquois chief yanked his hatchet out of a maple tree where he had left it. The sweet sap trickled down into a birchbark bowl that was leaning against the tree, and the rest is history. Early settlers in North America learned about maple sugaring from the native peoples. White sugar was very rare in these early Pioneer days, and the idea of producing a sweetener from the trees of the land was groundbreaking. Sugarbushes were born all across Ontario, and the annual spring thaw became a celebration of the maple harvest. The sap bucket hanging from a maple tree has become one of the most iconic and lasting images of an entire era.
Canadians look forward to the ‘liquid gold rush’ every spring that is the maple harvest. We flock to our nearest sugar bush to pick up that sweet maple syrup to don our favourite foods. Historically used to coat pancakes and french toast, maple syrup has expanded its uses and is now a favourite ingredient in many a Canadian kitchens. Maple syrup can be used to sweeten your coffee, to liven up a balsamic salad dressing, to add another element to your smoky barbeque sauce, and much more!
Another amazing fact about pure maple syrup, is it is actually a healthy alternative to refined sugars. According to Dr. Axe, one of North America’s best-known wellness doctors , “…maple syrup nutrition benefits can include the ability to lower inflammation, supply nutrients and better manage blood sugar.” Further, “Maple syrup nutrition is impressive when it comes to supplying protective antioxidants … Pure maple syrup contains up to 24 different antioxidants.” Some reports are even going a step further, saying that Maple syrup joins the ranks of broccoli and blueberries as new ‘one-stop shop’ superfood. If you use sugar or sweetener in your coffee or tea, make the switch to pure, all-natural maple syrup! Your body will thank you (and so will your tastebuds!)
If you can’t tell, we love our maple syrup in Muskoka, and we have decided to show our love for Canada’s staple product by celebrating its harvest! Please join us in downtown Huntsville on Saturday, April 21 for the 2nd annual Muskoka Maple Festival!
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