Tire sur la Neige

Tire sur la neige (draw on the snow) is an old-fashioned treat in Québec, also known as tire d'érable or la tire. It is made in the late winter and early spring as the maple syrup harvest begins and snow is still on the ground. Long wooden troughs are filled with snow over which is poured boiled and reduced maple syrup, chilling it to a taffy-like consistency. The taffy is then rolled up on wooden sticks and eaten. As the Québecois say, "Attention aux dents!"

Makes enough for 5 to 6 kids, big or small

• Maple syrup -- 1 quart
• Fresh, clean snow -- a good amount

Method

1. Bring the maple syrup to a boil in a large saucepan and simmer until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
2. Pour in a thin stream over clean snow. Let set for a moment to begin to harden. Roll up on clean stick and eat.