Most people drank or used to eat maple syrup, which is the concentrated sap of maple trees, but did you know you can make birch syrup? Birch syrup can be made from birch leaves, and while it does take some time, it is very easy to make. Are you interested in how and when to make use of birch trees for syrup? Read on to learn more about harvesting birch sap for syrup and other uses for birch sap.
Birch syrup flavour
Birch are hardwood trees commonly found in boreal hardwoods and boreal forests in northern hemisphere regions. The trees are tapped while harvesting the birch sap, which is then boiled to concentrate and caramelize the sugars. The result is delicious, albeit a very different one from maple syrup.
So what does birch syrup taste like? The flavor of birch syrup has been variously described as reminiscent of raspberries, tart cherries, apple butter and molasses, or as a combination of balsamic vinegar and molasses with a hint of fruit. Suffice it to say, consumers should not expect the sweet taste of maple syrup, but something else entirely, with its own unique flavor.
Birch sap uses
By the late 19th century, an early spring food shortage known as the "Hunger Gap" occurred in Europe. To fill this void, northern Europeans drank the sweet sap of birch trees. The use of birch sap as a drink was documented as early as 921 by people in the northern and northern regions of the northern hemisphere. )
Although birch sap is not rich in vitamins, this mineral is rich in calcium and potassium. It also contains antioxidants, sugar, vitamins C and B, and 17 amino acids. Much more nutritious than plain water.
Birch sap is also used in cosmetics, wine, mead, vinegar, candy, birch beer and, of course, syrup.
When do you peck at birch trees?
Birch sap is only harvested between winter and spring when the sap begins to flow: after the last frost but before the trees fall. Harvesting birch sap varies slightly by location. In Eastern Europe, March is known as the 'month of sap' while in northern latitudes, April is when the birch sap harvest begins.
How to make use of a birch tree for syrup
Tapping birch trees to get syrup is a very simple process. Any birch tree can be tapped - just remember that more sap will be needed to make the same amount of maple syrup as birch syrup has less sugar.
Make a hole in the tree at an angle facing upwards. Depending on the thickness of the tree, the diameter of the hole should range from 1/2 inch (1-2 cm) to about 2 inches (2-6 cm). The tree being tapped must be at least 10 inches (25 cm) high. The tree should produce about 1-2.5 gallons (5-10 liters) of sap per day.
Another way to make use of birch syrup is to cut off the tip of a branch that is about 2.5 inches (1 cm) wide. This method produces less juice but is less penetrating. Be sure to seal the hole with wax or birch tar after gluing either way.
0 Comments