What is Maple Syrup?
Maple syrup is considered a healthy alternative for sugar, and can be used for a variety of culinary activities. Quebec is the largest producer of maple syrup and maple season usually runs from February to April. If you happen to visit Quebec region during this period, make sure to plan a trip to a Cabane à sucre (sugar shack) to truly indulge in maple syrup themed cuisine.
Suggested ways to eat Maple Syrup
A popular way to enjoy maple syrup is to drizzle it over pancakes. Maple syrup is a wonderful complement for both sweet and savory dishes and can be used as a substitute for sugar in recipes.
4 Different Grades of Maple Syrup in Canada
The darker syrups have a stronger maple taste and are used for baking. The lighter syrups have a delicate taste and are poured over food.
Grades of Maple Syrup
- Golden: delicate taste
- Amber: rich taste
- Dark: robust taste
- Very Dark: strong taste
Canned Maple Syrup from Quebec
All grades of Maple Syrup are sold in grocery stores in canned form. The standard 540 ml can usually costs on average $5-8.
Where to get Maple Syrup in Montreal?
1. Cabane a Sucre Au Pied De Cochon
Traditional Cabanes a sucre can found in Quebec surrounded by forests of maple trees. Spring signals the start of the sugar shacking season in Canada. Cabanes a sucre usually serve maple syrup inspired food, maple taffy, maple inspired drinks including maple beer.
2. Marche Jean-Talon
Marché Jean-Talon (Jean-Talon Market) is an open-air farmers’ market in the heart of Little Italy known for its numerous local fruit and vegetable vendors. Open all year round, Marche Jean-Talon also offers maple syrup, flowers, cheese, meat, fish and artisanal bakery goods.
3. Delices Erable & Cie
Delices Erable & Cie is a boutique and bistro located in Old Montreal which sells maple syrup-flavored treats. Maple spread, maple tea and maple cookies are some of the exciting treats on offer. They also offer complimentary samples of various maple products.
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