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Tonic Recipe

A refreshing homemade tonic that balances sweetness and bitterness, perfect for cocktails or enjoyed on its own.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: International
Calories: 60
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cinchona bark
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary optional

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
  2. Add the cinchona bark to the sugar-water mixture.
  3. Mix in the lemon zest, black peppercorns, and dried rosemary if using.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
  5. After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the mixture into a bowl, discarding the solids.
  6. Stir in the fresh lime juice while the syrup is still warm.
  7. Let the tonic syrup cool before transferring it to a glass bottle or jar.
  8. Mix your tonic syrup with sparkling water for a refreshing drink.

Notes

This tonic syrup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.