Moussaka with Saffron Béchamel Sauce
Saffron, often referred to as the "golden spice," has been an integral part of Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. This precious spice, derived from the delicate threads of the Crocus sativus flower, adds not only a vibrant hue but also a unique flavor and aroma to various dishes. One such dish that benefits from saffron's touch is the renowned Mediterranean moussaka.
Moussaka, with its layers of eggplant, meat, and creamy béchamel, takes on a new dimension when infused with saffron. The saffron-infused béchamel sauce imparts a subtle yet distinct earthy flavor and an inviting golden color that elevates the dish to a whole new level of sophistication.
Saffron's use in Mediterranean cuisine isn't limited to moussaka; it can be found in dishes like paella, risotto, and various stews. The labor-intensive process of harvesting saffron threads by hand and the small yield from each flower make saffron a highly prized and luxurious spice.
When incorporating saffron into your cooking, remember that a little goes a long way. Soaking the saffron threads in warm milk or water before adding them to dishes helps release their aromatic compounds and imparts their characteristic color.
In conclusion, saffron's inclusion in Mediterranean dishes like moussaka showcases the region's culinary heritage and its ability to transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary gastronomic experiences. The next time you savor a saffron-infused dish, take a moment to appreciate the ancient tradition and exquisite flavor that this "golden spice" brings to your table
Ingredients:
For the eggplant layers:
For the meat sauce:
For the béchamel sauce:
Instructions:
Prepare the Eggplant:
Make the Meat Sauce:
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
Assemble and Bake:
Bake:
Serve:
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Saffron Jalebi Recipe
Jalebi: A Sweet Delight from India
Jalebi is a beloved sweet treat that originates from India and holds a special place in the hearts and palates of people across the country. This dessert, known for its intricate spiral shape and vibrant orange hue, is a staple at festive occasions, weddings, and celebrations.
History and Origins: The history of jalebi dates back centuries, with its roots tracing back to the Indian subcontinent. The word "jalebi" is believed to have Persian origins, and the dish has evolved over time to become an iconic Indian dessert.
Preparation and Culinary Art: Jalebi is made from a simple batter consisting of all-purpose flour, chickpea flour (besan), and a leavening agent like baking powder. The batter is left to ferment, which imparts a unique tanginess to the final product. Saffron and cardamom are often added to the batter for fragrance and flavor.
The process of making jalebi involves skillfully piping the fermented batter into hot oil or ghee, creating intricate patterns that fry to a beautiful golden color. Once fried, the jalebis are immediately dipped into a saffron-infused sugar syrup, allowing them to absorb the sweet essence.
Symbolism and Significance: Beyond its culinary appeal, jalebi holds cultural and social significance in India. The spiral shape of jalebi symbolizes eternity, continuity, and the cyclical nature of life. This symbolism is often reflected in Indian festivals and rituals.
Celebration and Sharing: Jalebi is a treat that brings people together. During festivals like Diwali and Eid, it graces the tables of homes across the country, signifying the joy and sweetness of the occasion. It's also a popular street food, with vendors expertly crafting jalebis in large pans of bubbling oil, captivating both locals and tourists alike.
Modern Variations: While the traditional jalebi remains a timeless favorite, modern variations have emerged. Some creative renditions include chocolate-filled jalebis, flavored syrups, and even jalebi-inspired desserts like ice creams and cakes.
In conclusion, jalebi is more than just a dessert; it's a cultural treasure that exemplifies the artistry and sweetness of Indian culinary traditions. Its intricate preparation and joyful symbolism make it a cherished indulgence that delights the senses and fosters a sense of togetherness.
Ingredients:
For the batter:
For the sugar syrup:
Instructions:
Preparing the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, chickpea flour, and baking powder.
Add the warm water gradually, stirring continuously to create a smooth batter. The batter should have a pouring consistency, similar to pancake batter.
If using saffron strands, soak them in a tablespoon of warm water for a few minutes. Add this saffron-infused water to the batter, along with cardamom powder. Mix well.
Cover the batter with a cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1-2 hours. This fermentation helps develop the flavors and texture.
Preparing the Sugar Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water to make the syrup.
Add saffron strands and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until it forms a slightly sticky syrup.
Turn off the heat and add cardamom powder and lemon juice. Lemon juice prevents the syrup from crystallizing.
Frying the Jalebis:
Heat oil or ghee in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
Fill a squeeze bottle or a piping bag with the fermented batter.
When the oil is hot, carefully squeeze the batter into the hot oil to form concentric circles or pretzel-like shapes. Start from the center and work your way out.
Fry the jalebis until they are golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry a few jalebis at a time.
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the jalebis from the oil and immediately transfer them to the warm sugar syrup. Let them soak for a minute or so, then remove and place on a serving plate.
Serving:
Serve the jalebis warm or at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh when they are still slightly crispy on the outside and soaked in the sugar syrup. Jalebis are a popular Indian sweet and are often served during festivals, special occasions, or as a delightful treat.
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Maple Pudding Chômeur: A Classic Canadian Dessert
Maple Pudding Chômeur, which translates to "unemployed man's pudding," is a beloved dessert hailing from the province of Quebec, Canada. This delectable treat has a humble origin, said to have been created during the Great Depression when families needed to make the most of their pantry staples. Despite its simple beginnings, Maple Pudding Chômeur has become a treasured dessert enjoyed by many for its rich maple flavor and comforting warmth.
The dessert consists of two main components: a moist cake batter and a luscious maple syrup sauce. The cake batter is made by combining flour, baking powder, sugar, milk, butter, and vanilla extract. The result is a soft and slightly dense cake that serves as the perfect vessel for soaking up the maple syrup sauce.
The star of the show is the maple syrup sauce, which is made by boiling together pure maple syrup, water, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. This mixture creates a sweet and indulgent sauce that gets poured over the cake batter before baking. As the dessert bakes, the cake rises to the top, while the sauce sinks to the bottom, resulting in a delightful layering effect.
When served warm, the Maple Pudding Chômeur offers a comforting experience that's especially welcome during colder months. The cake absorbs the maple syrup sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that are both sweet and slightly caramelized. Many enjoy it on its own, but it's also commonly served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add a creamy contrast.
Maple Pudding Chômeur stands as a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Canada, specifically Quebec, where maple syrup plays a significant role in the local cuisine. This dessert showcases the versatility of maple syrup, transforming it from a breakfast condiment to a star ingredient in a heartwarming dessert. Whether enjoyed as a nostalgic treat or a new culinary discovery, Maple Pudding Chômeur continues to bring joy to dessert tables and evoke a sense of tradition with every indulgent bite.
Ingredients:
For the Cake Batter:
For the Maple Syrup Sauce:
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the cake batter.
In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet sugar mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
In a saucepan, combine the pure maple syrup, water, brown sugar, and vanilla extract for the maple syrup sauce. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then remove from the heat.
Pour the cake batter into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish or equivalent ovenproof dish.
Carefully pour the maple syrup sauce evenly over the cake batter. Do not stir.
Place the baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any potential spills. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. The cake will absorb the maple syrup sauce as it cools.
Serve the Maple Pudding Chômeur warm, spooning the cake and sauce into individual serving dishes. You can also top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Maple Pudding Chômeur!
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Maple Blueberry Oat Bars Recipe
These Maple Blueberry Oat Bars combine the sweet, earthy flavors of maple syrup and the vibrant burst of blueberries with the comforting texture of oats. These bars are perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even a wholesome dessert.
Introduction
Maple syrup's warm and inviting sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the tangy burst of blueberries in the Maple Blueberry Oat Bars. These bars are more than a delightful treat—they're a wholesome fusion of flavors and nutrients that showcase the versatility of maple syrup in both baking and culinary creations. Let's embark on a journey to discover the magic that happens when maple syrup meets blueberries in this delectable recipe.
A Symphony of Tastes
The foundation of Maple Blueberry Oat Bars is twofold: the oat base and crumble and the vibrant blueberry filling. The oat mixture forms a rustic and hearty layer, both as the base and the topping. This creates a satisfying contrast in texture against the velvety blueberry filling. The blueberry filling, infused with maple syrup's gentle sweetness and balanced by lemon juice's zesty brightness, encapsulates the essence of summer. The result is a symphony of tastes that marries comfort with freshness.
A Nutrient-Packed Delight
These bars are more than just a delightful indulgence; they're also packed with nutrients. Blueberries, known for their antioxidant-rich properties, lend a burst of color and healthful benefits to each bite. The oats contribute dietary fiber, offering a satisfying and wholesome element. And at the heart of it all, pure maple syrup provides a natural, unrefined sweetener with its own share of vitamins and minerals.
Versatility and Delight
Maple Blueberry Oat Bars embrace versatility. They're an ideal breakfast companion, a hearty snack for those midday cravings, or a guilt-free dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed with a cup of morning coffee, packed in a lunchbox, or savored as an after-dinner treat, these bars embody the comfort of homemade goodness.
Conclusion
The marriage of maple syrup and blueberries in these oat bars showcases the power of culinary creativity. It's a testament to the magic that unfolds when natural ingredients are combined with care and imagination. As you savor each bite of the Maple Blueberry Oat Bars, you're not only indulging in a delicious treat but also experiencing the delightful union of flavors, the wholesomeness of oats, and the richness of maple syrup—a true testament to the wonders that can be created in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Oat Base and Crumble:
For the Blueberry Filling:
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt for the oat base and crumble.
Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press about two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
In a saucepan, combine the blueberries, maple syrup, granulated sugar, and lemon juice for the blueberry filling. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a teaspoon of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the blueberry mixture and stir well. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Pour the blueberry filling evenly over the oat base.
Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the blueberry filling.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbling.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before using the parchment paper overhang to lift them out.
Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
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Saffron Rice - A Delightfully Fragrant Dish
Saffron rice is a luxurious and aromatic dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. This delectable dish is made using high-quality basmati rice, saffron threads, and a blend of warm spices, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful creation that's as visually appealing as it is delicious.
The Magic of Saffron: The star of this dish is saffron, often referred to as the "golden spice." Saffron threads are harvested from the delicate stigma of the Crocus sativus flower and are prized for their distinctive flavor, color, and aroma. With its rich yellow hue and slightly sweet, floral taste, saffron imparts a unique character to the rice, elevating it from a simple side to a gourmet delight.
A Symphony of Spices: The blend of spices used in saffron rice enhances its flavor profile, making every bite a journey for the senses. A combination of ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cardamom infuses the rice with warm, earthy undertones, while a cinnamon stick and cloves contribute subtle hints of warmth and complexity.
The Basmati Advantage: Basmati rice, known for its long, slender grains and distinct aroma, is the perfect canvas for saffron rice. When properly soaked and cooked, basmati rice grains remain separate and fluffy, creating a delightful texture that complements the dish's flavors. The inherent fragrance of basmati rice pairs harmoniously with saffron, making the dish even more inviting.
Cooking Technique: Creating the perfect saffron rice requires attention to detail. The saffron threads are first infused in warm milk, allowing their vibrant color and delicate flavor to infuse the liquid. The rice is then sautéed with aromatics and spices, absorbing their flavors before being cooked in a saffron-infused water mixture. This method ensures that each grain of rice is imbued with the enchanting hues and fragrances of saffron.
Serving Suggestions: Saffron rice is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It can be served alongside a rich and savory curry, providing a wonderful contrast to the flavors. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed with grilled meats, vegetables, or even as the base for a rice-based bowl topped with various toppings. The dish's captivating appearance makes it a stunning addition to festive gatherings and special occasions.
In Conclusion: Saffron rice is more than just a side dish – it's a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the allure of saffron and the art of blending spices. Its delicate fragrance, vibrant color, and exquisite taste make it a standout choice for those seeking a refined and satisfying dining experience. Whether served on its own or as part of a larger meal, saffron rice is sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate and your guests' hearts.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Prepare Saffron Infusion:
Rinse and Soak Rice:
Sauté Aromatics:
Add Spices:
Add Rice:
Add Water and Saffron:
Season and Cook:
Fluff and Serve:
Garnish and Serve:
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Maple Pumpkin Butter
Fall is the perfect time to savor the flavors of the season, and this Maple Pumpkin Butter is a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn in every spoonful. Made with rich pumpkin puree, warming spices, and a touch of maple syrup, this velvety spread is a versatile addition to your breakfast table or a delightful ingredient in various recipes.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and ensure your pumpkin puree is smooth and free of any lumps.
Combine Pumpkin and Maple Syrup: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree and maple syrup. Stir well to incorporate the two ingredients.
Add Spices: Add the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. These spices will infuse the pumpkin butter with the warm, comforting flavors of fall. Stir the mixture thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.
Cook Over Low Heat: Place the saucepan over low heat and cook the pumpkin mixture, stirring occasionally. The low heat will allow the flavors to meld together and the pumpkin butter to thicken. Be patient, as this process can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes.
Incorporate Vanilla: Once the pumpkin butter has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will enhance the overall flavor profile of the butter.
Cool and Store: Allow the Maple Pumpkin Butter to cool completely before transferring it to a clean, airtight jar or container. Store the pumpkin butter in the refrigerator, where it will continue to develop its flavors over time.
Enjoy: Spread this delectable Maple Pumpkin Butter on toast, bagels, English muffins, or even pancakes. It's also a wonderful accompaniment to oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, and ice cream. For a creative twist, consider using it as a filling for pastries or as a topping for baked goods.
Indulge in the taste of autumn with every spoonful of this Maple Pumpkin Butter. Its rich pumpkin flavor, combined with the warmth of spices and the sweetness of maple syrup, will transport your taste buds to a cozy and comforting fall wonderland.
Feel free to experiment with the spices and sweetness levels to suit your personal taste. This Maple Pumpkin Butter also makes for a delightful homemade gift during the holiday season. Enjoy the flavors of fall with this luscious and versatile spread!
]]>Introduction: When it comes to unique and flavorful ingredients, birch syrup takes center stage in this delectable recipe. Harvested from the sap of birch trees, birch syrup offers a distinctive taste that beautifully complements the succulence of salmon. The combination of the syrup's rich, caramel-like notes and the tender flakiness of salmon creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Let's embark on a culinary adventure and prepare a Birch Syrup Glazed Salmon that's sure to impress both your family and dinner guests.
Instructions:
Prepare the Salmon: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Season and Sear: Carefully season both sides of the salmon fillets with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet and sear each side for about 2 minutes until a golden crust forms. This step enhances the texture and flavor of the salmon.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the birch syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh dill. The combination of the birch syrup's deep flavor and the zesty lemon juice creates a harmonious balance that will elevate your dish to new heights.
Coat the Salmon: Carefully transfer the seared salmon fillets to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them side by side. With a spoon, generously coat the top of each fillet with the birch syrup glaze. This luscious mixture will infuse the salmon with its unique taste and create a delightful caramelized finish as it bakes.
Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and allow the salmon to bake for approximately 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the salmon to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn't overcook. The glaze will gradually caramelize, forming a beautiful golden-brown crust on the salmon's surface.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the Birch Syrup Glazed Salmon is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven. Arrange the fillets on individual serving plates. The succulent salmon, infused with the delightful birch syrup glaze, is ready to captivate your palate. Consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a refreshing side salad to complete your gourmet experience.
Conclusion: Exploring the world of culinary delights becomes even more exciting when you incorporate unique ingredients like birch syrup. This Birch Syrup Glazed Salmon recipe allows you to savor the distinctive flavors of birch syrup while indulging in the wholesome goodness of salmon. By following these simple steps, you'll create a memorable dish that reflects your culinary prowess and love for natural, flavorful ingredients.
]]>Are you looking for a quick and easy breakfast option that is both healthy and delicious? Look no further than maple chia pudding! This simple recipe only requires a few ingredients and can be made in advance, making it a perfect option for busy mornings.
Chia seeds are a nutrient-dense food, packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They are also a great source of antioxidants, which help to protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. In addition to their health benefits, chia seeds have a unique texture when soaked in liquid, creating a pudding-like consistency that is both satisfying and filling.
When combined with almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, chia seeds become a sweet and flavorful breakfast dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you prefer fruit, nuts, or an extra drizzle of maple syrup, the possibilities are endless.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be made in advance. Simply prepare the pudding the night before and store it in the fridge, so that it is ready to eat in the morning. You can also make a larger batch and enjoy it throughout the week for a quick and easy breakfast option.
In conclusion, maple chia pudding is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is the perfect option for busy mornings. So why not give it a try and enjoy a healthy and satisfying breakfast today!
Maple Chia Pudding Recipe
Ingredients:
Instructions:
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These cookies are one of our favourites to make around the holiday season. The aroma of the spices lingers in the air and the spiciness of the cookies excites our tastebuds. The birch syrup helps to pop the ginger flavor while incorporating the traditional molasses flavor of ginger cookies. This is a no fuss cookie to make which helps to free up your precious time during a busy holiday season.
2 1/4 cup all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 Tbsp ground ginger
2 tsp ground cinnamon
3/4 tsp ground nutmeg
3/4 tsp ground allspice
3/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup room temp unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 tsp dijon mustard
1/3 cup Fallen Leaves Birch Syrup.
1 large egg
1. Heat oven to 375 F
2. Line several baking sheets with parchment paper
3. Sift flour, baking soda, spices, and salt into a small bowl. Set aside
4. Mix sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
5. Scrape bowl, add Birch Syrup and mustard; mix till blended.
6. Scrape bowl again, add egg and mix till blended
7. Add flour mixture, blend, scrap bowl, and blend until smooth
8. Drop the dough in heaping tablespoons 2 inches apart onto the sheets. Bake cookies 12 to 15 minutes or until still slightly soft. Let cool completely on baking sheets. After the first day, store in a an airtight container.
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This is a simple, yet delicious recipe for Brussel sprouts using birch syrup. This recipe pairs well with turkey, roast chicken, and is a family favourite with Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner.
1 lb brussel sprouts
2 tbsp Birch Syrup
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
1. Preheat oven to 400 F
2. Clean and trim sprouts, cut in half.
3. Lightly oil baking pan, place Brussel sprouts flat side down.
4. Place brussel sprouts in oven for 25 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Mix birch syrup with olive oil, onion and garlic powder. Mix Brussel sprouts with mixture and bake for 5 more minutes.
6. Remove from oven and add salt and pepper to taste.
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1 1/2 pounds of carrots
2 cups water
1/2 tablespoon Fallen Leaves Maple Products Birch Syrup
1/4 cup Fallen Leaves Maple Products Amber Maple Syrup
1 tablespoon fresh parsley
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
Salt and Pepper to taste
1. Peel and cut carrots in 1/2 inch thick pieces.
2. Place carrots in pan with 2 cups of water. Simmer on medium-high covered for 8-10 minutes, or until carrots are tender.
3. Remove any excess water.
4. Mix together Birch Syrup, Maple Syrup and spices.
5. Mix sauce with carrots thoroughly.
6. Serve warm.
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1 8 oz wheel of brie
1/2 cup of Fallen Leaves Maple Products Dark Syrup
1/4 cup of candied pecans
1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. Place wheel of brie in brie baker, or oven safe dish just slightly bigger than the cheese.
3. Pour maple syrup over wheel of cheese and sprinkle candied pecans on top of the cheese.
4. Place in oven for 10 minutes, or until cheese melts.
5. Serve warm with crackers.
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This is a delicious way to add some great flavour to a fresh salad. A few years ago a good friend of mine gave me the great idea of making salad dressing using the Birch Syrup I had made. Thinking about the unique flavour of Birch Syrup and how it would pair with salad ingredients had me running to the cupboard to make this delicious Birch Syrup Salad Dressing. It's slightly sweet with a delicious burst of balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard, simply wonderful on a fresh salad.
Birch syrup differs quite a bit from maple syrup in its flavour. It is often described as being more of a savoury, rather than sweet flavour especially when compared with maple syrup. Birch syrup is rich in antioxidants and nutrients that give it a unique molasses, tart cherry flavour. This makes it perfect as a flavour enhancer in baking, cooking and even in desserts.
Every year in the late spring we prepare to tap our birch trees to make our birch syrup in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. This typically happens after our maple syrup season ends, and shortly after all the snow has melted which tends to be in late April or early May in Algoma. Birch trees produce a high amount of sap each day, however it takes between 100 to 120 gallons of birch sap to make just one gallon of syrup. The process to make birch syrup is similar to making maple syrup, except that the boiling down of the sap is done at a much lower temperature. This is done to prevent the fructose sugar in the birch sap from burning as it has a much lower burning temperature as compared to maple sap which is comprised of mostly sucrose. Once the right consistency is reached after a very long boiling process, the birch syrup is ready for bottling and to be used in all sorts of delicious recipes.
Prep time: 10 Mins.
Ingredients you need:
3 tbsp canola oil
3 tbsp Fallen Leaves Maple Birch Syrup
3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
3 tsp Dijon mustard
3 tbsp minced shallots
Preparation:
1. Finely mince shallots and place in small mixing bowl.
2. Add all remaining ingredients to mixing bowl, whisk until combined.
3. Serve over your favourite salad. Shake or whisk before pouring.
4. Store in fridge for 4-7 days.
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The old fashioned is a classic drink that has been enjoyed by whiskey drinkers for decades. It is an unique blend of Bourbon, orange and Bitters. Bitters provide a splash of spice and herbs to any cocktail but are an essential ingredient to the Old Fashioned. This combination of ingredients results in a spicy sweet caramel taste. An old fashioned is aromatic, silky, and smooth.
As I was sipping an Old Fashioned one evening after a particularly crazy day, I thought to myself that the perfect addition to my much enjoyed drink would be Orange Infuse Maple Syrup. It is a perfect match for this drink that relies on orange peel as both as a garnish, but also as a source of essential oil for aromatics and flavour. Without hesitation, I cracked open a bottle of our Fallen Leaves Orange Infuse Maple Syrup and got to work. This recipe is a personal favourite of mine and I often enjoy one while relaxing watching a movie, or by the campfire.
1. In a lowball whisky glass measure bourbon, Fallen Leaves Orange Infused Maple Syrup, and 3 dashes of Angostura Bitters and mix.
2. Using a knife, cut fresh orange peel into a strip 2 inches in length by 1/2 inch. Twist the orange peel over drink to allow the oils from the peel to mix with your drink. Place orange peel on rim of glass, or in your glass as garnish.
3. Add one large ice cube to glass. Mix gently to cool drink.
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At Fallen Leaves Maple Products, we believe that great conversations go hand in hand with great food whether it is a full meal or a quick snack. The melodic cadence of sharing of our experiences and laughter coupled with the aroma and taste of food stimulate our senses. It relaxes yet invigorates our spirit at the same time. It builds up memories that can be unleashed when a similar smell or taste occurs. These treasured memories help us get through lockdowns and remind us that we have more great conversations to look forward to.
The other day I was going through the kitchen cupboards searching the ingredients for a snack. I did not want a salty snack or sweet snack - I wanted an umami snack. A snack that was mildly sweet and savory that left a lingering flavour on my tongue. And only this would satisfy my craving. I spotted a can of water chestnuts and immediately knew what I was wanting. I checked to make sure I had the ingredients and got busy on what we consider a special treat.
I was given this recipe many years ago and we have affectionately named it bacon candy. The recipe's name I was given was bacon-wrapped water chestnuts, but we altered the recipe to help reduce the sodium and make it healthier, so we felt it earned a name change. All ingredients are found in a grocery store except for one special change. Lucky for us, we make the ingredient by tapping the birch trees in our Sault Ste Marie maple sugar bush. It can also be purchased on our online store.
We marinate the water chestnuts in our birch syrup. The birch syrup gives the water chestnuts a slightly sweet soy sauce flavour. We get a similar taste profile of soy sauce without the sodium and with the addition of antioxidants that birch syrup provides. This is one of the few birch recipes we have that use more than a tablespoon of syrup, but the marinating sauce can be saved in the fridge for a few days and used in a stir fry. These bacon-wrapped water chestnuts give the smoky taste of bacon with the crunch of water chestnuts followed by the umami of the birch syrup marinade.
This recipe has been our favorite for when we have expected and unexpected guests. It is quick to make, and it is quickly gobbled up by everyone. A sad look crosses everyone’s face when the plate is empty. As I enjoyed my snack it brought back great memories of the many friends and family we have entertained in our home. The great conversations, the laughter, and the love we have shared, and we look forward to enjoying these times again.
Yield: 16 pieces
Prep time: 1 hour 10 mins.
Total time: 1 hour 40 mins
Course: Appetizer
Ingredients
Directions
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