Ever wondered how you could remove sugar from your diet but still get a little sweetness in your day? Aside from some unique multivitamin gummies, maple syrup could make that happen!
It is one of the most loved sugar alternatives. While it may have won the hearts and taste buds of food lovers there is strong debate between maple syrup and sugar.
This post takes a deeper look at both, helping you decide which deserves a spot in your cupboard.
What is maple sugar?
Maple syrup is a natural, pure goodness. The kind that is sure to make your morning more enjoyable and healthier.
Maple syrup is produced by collecting the sap of maple trees and boiling it to remove excess liquid. It is made mostly in Quebec, Canada.
Difference between maple syrup and sugar
Here are some differences between maple syrup and sugar;
Origins
Maple syrup and sugar have wildly different origins. Maple syrup is the result of Mother Nature's magic. It is produced by collecting the sap of a maple sugar tree, boiling it down, and turning it into the liquid gold we drizzle on pancakes.
In contrast, sugar is typically derived from sugar cane or sugar beets, which undergo extensive refining processes before they become the granulated sugar we know.
Flavour
Maple syrup comes in several rich tastes. While its flavours vary as the weather or tree used, they are all unique and enjoyable. This natural variation makes every bottle of maple syrup an appealing and distinct experience.
Sugar, on the other hand, has a one-note sweetness. It's the dependable, straightforward option when you just need to add sweetness without any frills.
Nutritional value
While both maple syrup and sugar provide calories primarily from carbohydrates, there are some nutritional differences worth noting. Maple syrup contains various minerals like manganese and zinc, and some antioxidants. It's also less processed than sugar and, hence, retains some of the nutrients present in the sap.
Sugar, except in cases of brown sugar which has trace nutrients, lacks any nutritional content.
Sustainability and Production
Maple syrup has a more eco-friendly reputation when compared to sugar. Sugar often involves large-scale agriculture and significant water usage. Maple syrup production relies on the natural flow of sap from trees, and when done sustainably, it can have minimal environmental impact.
The process of turning sap into syrup is also relatively energy-efficient compared to sugar refining.
Usage
When it comes to cooking and baking, both maple syrup and sugar have their special place.
Maple syrup is a fantastic ingredient in recipes where its distinct flavour can shine. Recipes like pancakes, waffles, and glazes for meats or vegetables.
Sugar, being a neutral sweetener, is a versatile workhorse in the kitchen, used in everything from cakes and cookies to savoury sauces.
Benefits of maple syrup
Maple syrup is a wonderful and versatile food with health benefits that can not be overlooked. It is sometimes compared to sweeteners like molasses or truvia.
Here are some unpopular benefits of maple syrup you never knew;
- It contains antioxidants that protect cells from potentially damaging chemicals.
- Curbs inflammatory illnesses.
- Increased energy.
- It protects the skin from irritation, redness, pimples, and dryness.
- Supplies essential vitamins and minerals.
- It does not require much processing.
- Less glycemic load.
- Higher nutritional value.
Cutting back
It is recommended that women take no more than 100 calories per day of sugar and males consume no more than 150 calories per day.
This is true for all sugars, including honey and syrups. Hence, here are some tips for reducing sugars, syrups and honey consumption;
- Cut each intake in half.
- Reduce the amount of sweeteners used in baking. This has little or no effect on flavour or texture.
- Use almond, vanilla, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and other extracts or sweet spices.
- Sweet desires can be satisfied with fruit and Chewwies multivitamins.
Alternative sweeteners are not recommended for sugar reduction because they are not as nutritious and may increase sugar cravings.
Conclusion
Just like the debate between cane sugar and stevia, In the maple syrup vs. sugar showdown, the winner depends on your preferences and the culinary task at hand.
While maple syrup is your go-to sweetener if you want depth of taste and a connection to nature. Sugar remains the traditional choice for sweetness without the frills or a versatile ingredient for every dish.
Finally, who says you can’t have both? Maple syrup and sugar can coexist, each bringing its unique sweetness to your favourite dishes. As with all sweeteners, it's better to consume it in moderation.