A well-illustrated tribute to maple syrup, including Native legends of its discovery, its long history, how it's made, types of syrup and its grading, stories from people who make it, recipes and notes on using it in cooking. Delia Smith has described maple syrup as 'a unique ingredient, smooth- and silky-textured, with a sweet, distinctive flavour - hints of caramel with overtones of toffee will not do - and a rare colour, amber set alight.' In this richly illustrated book, the authors explore every aspect of maple syrup. They relate Native legends surrounding its discovery and explain its importance in the pioneer diet. They cover the sugar maple's exalted status in the maple tree family, and reveal why maple sap is still one of nature's great mysteries. Also included are: Details about how sugar maples are tapped and how the sap is collected; Insights from producers who reveal their affection for a shared passion; A special 'maple syrup flavour wheel' that describes the many colours, grades and flavour variations available; A selection of recipes, including maple salmon, maple-marinated chicken wings and maple sugar pecans. A complete and fascinating resource filled with history, romance and sweet flavours, The Maple Syrup Book provides the full story behind a long-standing and important North American tradition.