The Magic of Maple

by Zehorit Heilicher, Tastemaker in Residence  

Have you noticed? Maple syrup is all grown up and going places! First, it cannot be confused anymore with boiled colored sugar, bottled in gimmicky plastic bottles (though those have their own charm and tradition!) Second, it is no longer consigned simply to topping pancakes. Its amber-caramelly flavor shines in many applications, savory and sweet.

Maple syrup shows up in cocktails, glazing vegetables, sweetening salad dressings, and even marinading meats. Choosing quality syrup is important since the maple’s sweetness balances saltiness rounds up acidity and provides a depth of flavor. Great local brands are amiable throughout the country. 

A very good bargain for a delicious syrup right now is Costco’s Crown Maple Organic Bourbon-Barrel syrup in a giftable bottle. ($18.40 for a 25oz bottle)

If you’d like to try some delicious maple recipes, here is a collection from two of my very favorite resources: Leite’s Culinaria and Food52.

Enjoy and Happy Holidays!

Savory:

1. Maple Roast Chicken: https://leitesculinaria.com/96219/recipes-maple-roast-chicken.html

2. Maple Sriracha Bacon: https://leitesculinaria.com/135735/recipes-maple-sriracha-bacon.html

3. Coleslaw with Maple Syrup https://leitesculinaria.com/40602/recipes-maple-syrup-coleslaw.html

4. Maple Glazed Salmon: https://leitesculinaria.com/113547/recipes-maple-glazed-salmon.html

5. Savory Pear, Sweet Potato & Maple Syrup Soufflé: https://food52.com/recipes/14383-savory-pear-sweet-potato-and-maple-syrup-souffle

Sweet:

1. Maple Pecan Pie: https://leitesculinaria.com/82675/recipes-maple-pecan-pie.html

2. Maple Caramel Corn: https://leitesculinaria.com/274539/recipes-maple-caramel-corn.html

3. Grandma's White Cake with Maple Syrup Frosting: https://food52.com/recipes/24634-grandma-s-white-cake-with-maple-syrup-frosting

4. Maple-Sage Ice Cream w/Maple-sage Sugared Walnuts: https://food52.com/recipes/15540-maple-sage-ice-cream-with-maple-sage-sugared-walnuts

5. Maple & Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cookies: https://food52.com/recipes/16687-maple-brown-sugar-oatmeal-cookies

Drinks:

1. Maple Leaf Cocktail: https://leitesculinaria.com/55708/recipes-maple-leaf-cocktail.html

2. Maple Cardamom Old Fashioned: https://food52.com/recipes/31560-maple-cardamom-old-fashioned

3. Figgin’ Delicious: https://food52.com/recipes/31552-figgin-delicious