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Happiest · Zero-Proof
Citrus Tonic Concentrate
Bitter citrus, spice, and a controlled way to make tonic-like long drinks at home.
About 2 cups30 minutesClean, heat-safe jar or bottle
01 · What you need
Ingredients
- 2 cups waterWater
- 1 tbsp dried bitter orange peelDried Bitter Orange Peel
- 1 tbsp dried lemon peelFresh Citrus Juice
- 1 tsp crushed coriander seedCrushed Coriander Seed
- 1 tsp crushed juniper berriesCrushed Juniper Berries
- 1 cinnamon stickCinnamon Stick
- 1 cup granulated sugarGranulated Sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juiceFresh Citrus Juice
02 · Make it
Method
- 01
Bring water, peels, coriander, juniper, and cinnamon to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes.
- 02
Cover off heat for 10 minutes, then strain very well through a coffee filter or fine cloth.
- 03
Return the liquid to the pan, stir in sugar until dissolved, then add lemon juice. Cool, bottle, and refrigerate.
Happiest note
This is tonic-adjacent, not a substitute for commercial tonic’s quinine bite. Its strength is fresh citrus and spice.
03 · Use it well
Recommended uses
- Mix 1 oz with 4 oz sparkling water for a tonic-style soda
- Gin or vodka highballs
- Zero-proof citrus and rosemary drinks
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