10 Things to do with Apple Cider Syrup!

Apple Cider Syrup is a colonial recipe popular in New England.  Like maple syrup, it is made by boiling down a sweet natural nectar (in this case, pure apple cider) until it thickens to syrup consistency that can be preserved and enjoyed for many months.  Unlike mellow maple syrup though, Apple Cider Syrup is an elixer with the concentrated tangy rich flavour of apples  has an unexpected tangy. Once a kitchen staple, Apple Cider Syrup has regained popularity with gourmet cooks and foodies alike.  Brace yourself for a unique culinary experience!

Curious about the background?

I'm not sure how or where I first came across the concept of Apple Cider Syrup. To be honest, I have never tasted or even seen it anywhere else!  As a fan of traditional slow cooking, I have always been fascinated by the creative ways cooks and colonists used to preserve and enjoy bounty from their fields, pastures and gardens. Some focused internet research has helped provide insight and history into this fascinating product, like this Ark of Taste summary from Slow Food USA.  Interestingly, I have not (yet) found Canadian pioneer or current examples of Apple Cider Syrup production. 

10 things you can do with Apple Cider Syrup

1. Use as a sweetener in recipes in place of sugar, honey, or maple syrup...everything from baking to salad dressings and marinades
2. Stir into oatmeal or plain yoghurt
3. Drizzle over pancakes or waffles (use just a little!)
4. Glaze meats like poultry and salmon. For ham and pork, mix with equal parts of whole grain mustard. 
5. When you can't get fresh apples, toss a tablespoon or two with the sliced apples for a pie or apple crisp for a fresh apple-y taste
6. Whisk into cream cheese icing to add flavour and colour
7. Spoon over vanilla ice cream
8. Pour a tablespoon over ice, fill the rest of the glass with seltzer water, and stir. Voila! Healthy apple cider soda!
9. Make “instant” hot cider: stir 1-3 tablespoons into boiling water (add a little rum or brandy to make a hot toddy!)
10. Stir into your favourite hot tea to sweeten and brighten the flavour

Did I say 10? The list keeps growing!

1. Add a teaspoon to add colour and brightness to a meat gravy
2. Mix with icing sugar to glaze cakes and tarts
3. Add to your favourite brines for meat and poultry
4. Use as a glaze for winter vegetables like carrots, squash and parsnips

Buy Apple cider syrup now!