The Magic of Maple

Maple syrup production is an art form, passed on from one generation to another. The Chevalier family makes their syrup traditionally, using methods that began with their ancestors.

Taps are inserted one by one into the sugar maple trees to allow the sap, also called sugar water, to drip into individually placed buckets. These then await collection by industrious, hard-working family members who come together each season solely for this purpose.

Nature at her best

The time period for sugar water collection is short, usually occurring during the two to three weeks before Easter. Family members wait patiently for the ideal time, when temperatures drop below freezing at night and rise above freezing during the day.

This is the sweet spot, and as Frank says, the time when “you feel the energy of the earth come rushing up the trees for rebirth.” This synergy is important, or the sap will become harder and sweeter, and will ultimately stop dripping. This is nature at her best.

The sap is collected quickly, and timing is important. In the first days, when the water is fresh, rich, golden syrup is produced. Later in the season, the syrup becomes darker, producing different grades and classes of syrup. Like fine wine, syrups are produced with care, and each batch is as unique as the individual who tastes it.

The magic begins

Back at the sugar shack, the sap is boiled in a three-part process that causes it to gradually thicken and become sweeter. This all takes place in an impressive, third-generation boiler, purchased by Frank Chevalier’s grandfather.

The sap is heated over a wood fire and watched closely until the syrup production is complete. Requiring 40 gallons of sap to produce just one gallon of maple syrup, not one drop of this precious water can be wasted, and each member of the family has a deep respect for this fact.

As I followed and watched the process unfold, I was struck by the devotion and intensity of this family as they worked together as one big team. This was the closest I had ever felt to Canada. These were the stories I grew up with, and here they were, presented in real life, right in front of me.

Canadiana—for real

What might seem like a Canadian cliché becomes a reality here. Snowshoes and wood-burning fires, plaid shirts and old cross-country skis—they all have purpose here. Things we might consider props, these people call tools; something quaint we might see in a ski lodge is a functional part of this family’s traditions.

There is nothing here that isn’t useful. No woodsy décor or aromatherapy, just natural comfort acquired over the years and the earthy, woodsy smells of the air outside, the wood-burning fire, and the sweetness of syrup.

A labour of love

Frank described the magical moments he would spend alone in the night, tasting the syrup as it became denser and the sugar content increased, while he listened to music and immersed himself in the experience. Maple syrup production for this family is a labour of love, a family tradition that serves as a reminder of their unique and unified history.

With only 48 to 80 cans produced each day, the Roy/Chevalier family never sells their syrup. Instead, it is generously offered to the loyal family and friends who have helped in its creation and toiled in its production. A special gift and reminder of their hard work, to be savoured and enjoyed throughout the year.

The following recipes were inspired by our visit to the Roy/Chevalier sugar shack. I hope, through this food, you will get a sense of their family history and the legacy of maple syrup, a natural product whose origins date back to Canada’s Indigenous peoples. A part of our country and a part of our culture. From my kitchen to yours—enjoy the magic of maple!

Recipes

Butternut Squash and Apple Soup with Maple Syrup and Chili Oil

Maple Syrup and Miso Black Cod with Fried Rice

Maple Syrup Ice Cream