Using sound judgment to be more self-reliant.
Maple syrup is a delicious, healthy alternative to refined sugar, and is enjoyed on the table as well as in many recipes. It's simple to make maple syrup in the backyard, though once bitten by the sugaring bug, many go on to expand their operations!
Note: If you're here from the “50 Things You Should Make Instead of Buy” article, we do have a quick and easy homemade maple syrup substitute at the bottom of the page. [Read more…]
In recent years we've been blessed with an abundance of walnuts from a neighbor each fall, so I enjoy trying out new walnut recipes. This recipe for Maple Candied Walnuts from The Whole Life Nutrition Kitchen is lovely and couldn't be easier. They make a tasty and unique gift, but are easy enough to be a special treat any time of year.
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We buy maple syrup in bulk from a local maple syrup producer, so I enjoy trying out new maple syrup recipes. These maple leaf cookies are a maple twist on traditional sugar cookies. They start with making a butter and sugar blend that reminds me of the caramel sauce from my mom's favorite cinnamon roll recipe, and add a dash of spice and light maple glaze for a simple but tasty cookie. [Read more…]
The Sugarmaker's Companion: An Integrated Approach to Producing Syrup from Maple, Birch, and Walnut Trees by Michael Farrell focuses on the business of syrup and sugar making. If you want to tap maples or other trees for profit, this book is a worthwhile investment. Even if you don't have trees, the book still has merit for small producers of many types. Producing an excellent product is no longer enough – you have to be able to market it, and create value added products. Those often overlooked areas are what keep small farms alive. [Read more…]
These maple macaroons are a great way to use up leftover egg whites to make a less sweet treat. They're sweetened with maple syrup and thickened with arrowroot, which produces a light, crunchy cookie. These take quite a while to bake, so keep that in mind before you start mixing. If you find that your finished cookies aren't quite as crisp as you would like, you can extend the cooking time at low heat, or put them in the dehydrator for a few hours. (If the weather is humid, they may absorb moisture from the air.) [Read more…]
