Drinks & liquids · Waters & mixers

Tonic water

Sparkling water flavoured with bitter quinine and sweetened, used in long drinks and alcohol-free coolers.

Also called: tonic, indian tonic water, quinine water

What it is

Carbonated water sweetened and flavoured with quinine, which gives its distinctive bitterness, often with citrus. It is sweeter and more bitter than soda water or plain sparkling water, which are unflavoured. 'Light' or 'slimline' versions use less sugar or sweeteners. Quinine makes tonic glow blue under ultraviolet light.

How it’s used

Topping up citrus and herb mocktails
Mixed with espresso for an espresso tonic
Mixed with juice or cordial as a bitter-sweet cooler
Batter liquid for light, crisp fried coatings

Characteristics

Taste: Sweet, then bitter and citrusy.
Appearance: Clear and fizzy.
When cooked: Loses its fizz quickly once opened; pour cold and add last.
Sold as: liquid
Cooking uses: Usually eaten raw
Common in: British, International

Storage

Pantry-stable. Store unopened in a cool cupboard; chill before use. Once opened, recap tightly, refrigerate and use within a day or two before it goes flat.

Diet, allergens and safety

No major allergens in typical versions.

Vegetarian
Vegan
Dairy-free
Egg-free
Gluten-free
Nut-free
Soy-free
Caffeine-free

Contains quinine; people who are pregnant, take certain medicines or are sensitive to quinine should check with a health professional before drinking a lot.
Regular tonic contains a fair amount of sugar.

Nutrition per 100 g

Energy: 34 kcal
Protein: 0 g
Carbohydrate: 8.8 g
Fat: 0 g
Fibre: 0 g
Sugars: 8.8 g

USDA FoodData Central: Beverages, carbonated, tonic water.

Substitutes

Optional — what works if you don’t have it, and how it changes the dish.

Sparkling water — Gives fizz without bitterness; add a little lime and sugar to taste.

Related ingredients

Recipes with tonic water

Espresso tonic
International · 2 min · 54 kcal · Vegan