Sweet enhancements: Cooking with maple crystals
What's the story
Maple crystals, created by dehydrating maple syrup, are a natural sweetener that can add a unique depth of flavor to a wide range of dishes.
These crystals retain the beneficial minerals and antioxidants present in maple syrup, making them a healthier option compared to refined sugar for adding sweetness to recipes.
This article explores five innovative ways to incorporate maple crystals into your culinary masterpieces.
Breakfast
A twist on morning oats
Kickstart your day with a healthy and delicious bowl of oatmeal by replacing sugar with maple crystals.
Just a sprinkle (two tablespoons) of maple crystals on your morning oats adds a burst of flavor and a touch of caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with fruits and nuts.
This one easy swap can turn a basic breakfast into a gourmet treat.
Baking
Elevate your baking game
Maple crystals can be used as a direct replacement for white or brown sugar in baking.
Incorporate them into cookies, muffins, or cakes for a deep, complex taste.
For example, creaming 100g of maple crystals into your cookie dough not only provides sweetness but also infuses a delicious scent, elevating your baked treats to a whole new level.
Beverages
Refreshing maple lemonade
To make a delicious and unique spin on traditional lemonade, try using maple crystals.
Combine the juice of four lemons with four cups of water and 1/2 cup of maple crystals.
The natural sweetness and depth of flavor of the maple crystals perfectly balance the tartness of the lemon, resulting in a refreshing and harmonious beverage.
Cooking
Savory dishes get sweeter
Adding maple crystals to savory dishes may sound unconventional, but it creates a surprisingly delicious flavor profile.
Try sprinkling a tablespoon on roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts before baking. This will caramelize their exterior and highlight their natural sweetness.
And, for a truly mouthwatering glaze, add some to your marinades for tofu or tempeh. Trust me, it's a game-changer!
Snacks
Homemade granola clusters
Homemade granola gives you control over its sweetness.
Mix three cups of oats with one cup each of nuts and seeds.
In a separate bowl, whisk together one-half cup melted coconut oil, one-third cup maple syrup, and one-fourth cup maple crystals.
Combine everything, pour over the oats, and bake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until golden.
Maple crystals lend additional crunch and sweetness to your granola clusters.