Birch syrup a small batch process

Well...

if you aren't busy enough take up a hobby.  I have been enjoying the country life and the opportunities it offers when you have the resources available.  On a whim, I decided to order 10 spiles and bags for a maple syrup run.  It has been a fantastic spring in Wisconsin for a good run.  I have boiled down over three gallons of maple syrup to enjoy and share.  I have made more pancakes in the last two weeks for various company than I have in the last year.  The Better Homes and Gardens favorite pancake recipe is in my head.  I also found that I can substitute soy or almond milk with very good results.  The key to good pancakes is make sure your griddle is good and hot before you put the first batter on.
 

River birch is just one of the genus that can be tapped for sap

Birch syrup production is more labor intensive.  It takes twice as much, if not more, birch sap than maple to make the same amount of syrup.  I have been using an electric roaster to do overnight evaporation of concentrated sap to save some time of sitting with it.  The syrup has a much more caramel flavor with a definite molasses side.  I have not picked up on any spicy notes in my syrup as some sites would suggest.
Needless to say, I have come to the end of my run.  After collecting over 20 gallons of sap in one day, I woke up sore and tired.  I have a full-time job running the nursery and greenhouse, so a hobby is not something I need in the middle of spring.  I promised someone birch sap on Monday for his attempt at birch beer, so today I will collect and filter today's sap and put it on ice.  After I get through yesterday's run, I am out of the syrup making business until next year.  I hear that butternuts make a nice syrup...