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Homemade Tonic

A refreshing homemade tonic with a delightful balance of sweetness and bitterness, perfect for cocktails or a sparkling refreshment.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: International
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cinchona bark available at health food stores
  • 1 tablespoon citric acid
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • Optional: additional herbs or spices for flavor

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Glass jar or bottle for storage
  • Stirring spoon

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and cinchona bark.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a boil.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
  4. After simmering, strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl or jar.
  5. Return the strained liquid to the saucepan and add sugar, citric acid, lime juice, and lemon zest.
  6. Heat the mixture again over low heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
  7. Let the tonic cool to room temperature before transferring it to a glass jar or bottle.
  8. To serve, mix 1 part tonic syrup with 3 parts soda water.

Notes

Use fresh citrus juice for a brighter flavor. Experiment with herbs for a unique taste.