Refreshing Homemade Tonic Water Recipe
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Ingredients
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1 liter Water
(Filtered water is preferred for purity.)
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20 grams Cinchona bark
(This is the source of quinine, which gives tonic water its unique flavor.)
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1 medium Lemon zest
(Use a vegetable peeler to avoid the bitter white pith.)
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50 ml Lime juice
(Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.)
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100 grams Sugar
(Adjust to taste; can substitute with agave syrup.)
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500 ml Carbonated water
(For serving, choose sparkling mineral water.)
(Filtered water is preferred for purity.)
(This is the source of quinine, which gives tonic water its unique flavor.)
(Use a vegetable peeler to avoid the bitter white pith.)
(Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.)
(Adjust to taste; can substitute with agave syrup.)
(For serving, choose sparkling mineral water.)
Nutrition
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 glass (200ml)
- Calories: 45 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Calcium: 2 mg
- Iron: 0.1 mg
Instructions
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1 - Prepare Infusion:
In a pot, combine water, cinchona bark, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer and let it steep for 10 minutes.
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2 - Strain Mixture:
After steeping, strain the infusion through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids.
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3 - Add Lime Juice and Sugar:
Stir in lime juice and sugar (if using) until dissolved. Allow to cool.
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4 - Mix with Carbonated Water:
In a glass, mix the tonic syrup with carbonated water to taste. Adjust sweetness if necessary.
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5 - Serve:
Pour over ice and garnish with a slice of lemon or lime if desired.
In a pot, combine water, cinchona bark, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer and let it steep for 10 minutes.
After steeping, strain the infusion through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids.
Stir in lime juice and sugar (if using) until dissolved. Allow to cool.
In a glass, mix the tonic syrup with carbonated water to taste. Adjust sweetness if necessary.
Pour over ice and garnish with a slice of lemon or lime if desired.
More About: Refreshing Homemade Tonic Water Recipe
Tonic Water: A Refreshing Classic
Tonic water is a carbonated soft drink that has a distinct bitter flavor due to its quinine content, derived from the cinchona tree. Traditionally, tonic water was used as a preventive measure against malaria, as quinine is an effective treatment for the disease. Today, tonic water is enjoyed as a popular mixer in cocktails, particularly with gin. The refreshing blend of bitter and sweet, along with its effervescence, makes it a favorite among beverage enthusiasts.
This recipe for homemade tonic water offers a simple yet delightful way to create your own tonic, allowing you to control the sweetness and flavor to match your preferences. The combination of lemon and lime adds a zesty punch, enhancing the drinking experience.
Tips for Perfect Tonic Water
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other botanicals or herbs like rosemary or mint for a unique twist.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, you can increase or decrease the amount of sugar or try natural sweeteners.
- Serve with Style: Garnish with fresh herbs or citrus slices for an eye-catching presentation.
Cultural Significance
Tonic water has evolved from its medicinal origins to a staple in social drinking culture, especially in the United Kingdom. It has become synonymous with gin and tonic, one of the most beloved cocktails around the world. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or as a refreshing drink during happy hour, homemade tonic water is a testament to the art of beverage-making. Enjoy this unique drink as a standalone refreshment or as an essential mixer in your cocktail repertoire!
