Kinnie - Maltese Bitter Orange Soda

Ingredients

Bitter oranges

4-5, juiced

Granulated sugar

1/2 cup (adjust to taste)

Fresh herbs (such as mint, thyme, or basil)

1/4 cup, loosely packed

Sparkling water

4 cups, chilled

Ice cubes

as needed

Orange slices

for garnish

Fresh herbs (for garnish)

a few sprigs

Instructions

1. Start by juicing the bitter oranges. Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp, collecting it in a large pitcher.
2. In the same pitcher, add the granulated sugar to the orange juice. Stir vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved. You can adjust the sugar amount based on your preferred sweetness.
3. Next, add the fresh herbs to the pitcher. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently bruise the herbs, releasing their aromatic oils and enhancing the flavor.
4. Slowly pour in the chilled sparkling water, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients without losing the fizz.
5. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the Kinnie mixture over the ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of orange and a sprig of fresh herbs for an added touch of freshness.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste of homemade Kinnie!