Our Favourite (Non-Traditional) Things…

Below are some of our absolute favourite and wonderfully unexpected ways to explore the depth and elegance of Simcoe maple. Prepare to be delighted.

1. Soya Sauce + Maple Syrup with Sushi or Sashimi

A drizzle of fine maple syrup over aged soy sauce enhances umami without overpowering delicate fish. The subtle sweetness balances the salt, making toro, salmon, or scallop sashimi shine. Try a 2:1 blend of soy to maple as a dipping sauce or brush it lightly over pressed sushi with avocado or seared tuna. Sushi with maple is sensual and sensational.

2. Maple Syrup on Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Nothing beats the hot-and-cold contrast of warm maple syrup poured over pure vanilla bean ice cream. Add toasted heart nuts, chestnuts, hazelnuts, or walnuts—or a pinch of flaked sea salt—and you’ll never go back. For a grown-up twist, try a splash of local craft whisky or espresso.

3. Maple Syrup in Your Morning Coffee

Skip the sugar. A teaspoon of maple syrup adds depth and complexity, not just sweetness, to your brew especially medium or dark roasts. It’s smooth, mellow, and makes a latte feel like a luxury. Bonus: it’s lower on the glycemic index than refined, processed white sugar. Much better for you.

4. Maple-Glazed Salmon with Carrots

Brush a glaze of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of cider vinegar over a Canadian salmon fillet, then roast with baby carrots tossed in olive oil and sea salt. The syrup caramelizes beautifully, creating a rich, savoury-sweet crust. (Also doable, right on the BBQ)

5. Maple Balsamic Salad Dressing

Whisk together 3 parts olive oil, 1 part balsamic vinegar, 1 part maple syrup, a spoonful of grainy mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This deceptively simple dressing adds dimension to arugula, spinach, bagged salads, roasted squash, or even grilled peaches. Your family and guests will be enthralled with your culinary savvy.

6. Tomato Pasta Sauce with a Maple Finish

Just a drizzle of maple syrup right at the end of cooking sauce rounds out the acidity of fresh or canned tomatoes. It deepens the flavour of classic marinara, bolognese, or spicy arrabbiata without turning it sweet. If you’ve never tried it, this weekend will be perfect.

7. Maple Chocolate Chip Cookies (Hazelnut Optional)

Chewy, golden, and irresistible: substitute maple syrup for half the sugar in your favourite cookie recipe. Fold in dark chocolate chunks and lightly toasted hazelnuts for a nutty crunch. Finish with a pinch of sea salt or kosher salt for the perfect bite.

8. Maple Old Fashioned Cocktail

Bartenders love using maple syrup in place of simple syrup for a much richer, woodsy profile. Stir 2 oz local Ontario whisky or rye with ½ tsp maple syrup and like a pro, 2 dashes of bitters. Serve over ice with a twist of orange peel (or not). It’s a Simcoe-approved nightcap.

Tip: You can also drop a teaspoon of Simcoe syrup into a rocks glass of whisky. It will instantly transform the glass into a stunning cocktail that tastes amazing until the last drop. And this works brilliantly with any amber spirit you’re working with.

9. Maple & Brie on Toasted Baguette

Melt creamy Brie cheese on slices of toasted baguette, then drizzle with maple syrup and add crushed pecans, hazelnuts, or cranberries. This is an instant crowd-pleaser for dinner party boards or wine nights.

10. Maple Roasted Nuts or Popcorn

Toss almonds, pecans, or popcorn in a warm glaze of maple syrup, butter, and a touch of cayenne pepper. Roast or pan-toast until golden and glossy. A sweet-and-spicy snack that disappears fast!

11. Maple Bourbon Barbecue Sauce

Elevate your summer grilling with a maple bourbon barbecue sauce. Combine ketchup, maple syrup, a shot of bourbon, smoked paprika, and a dash of hot sauce. Brush over ribs, chicken, or grilled veggies for a sticky, smoky, and utterly addictive glaze.

12. Maple Banana Pancakes

Whisk mashed ripe bananas into your pancake batter, then pour rounds onto a hot griddle. Once flipped, drizzle with warm maple syrup and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt. The maple highlights the caramelized banana, creating a breakfast that’s pure comfort.

13. Maple Butter on Fresh Biscuits

Whip softened butter with a generous splash of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon. Spread onto warm, flaky biscuits for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for brunch.

Bonus Tip

Look for our dark, late-season maple syrup this year when you want bold flavour for glazes, baking, or marinades. For cocktails, dressings, or desserts, golden and amber grades can let the nuances shine through.