Kinnie

Name: Kinnie
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Malta
Ingredients: Bitter (Seville) oranges, juiced and zested — 2; Sugar — 1 cup (200 g / 7 oz); Water, divided — 4 cups (960 ml / 32 fl oz); Cinnamon stick — 1; Whole cloves — 2; Wormwood or gentian root, if available — 1 tsp (or omit for a simpler homemade version); Sparkling water, to serve

The Quirky Foodster Team

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10 min

Prep

15 min

Cook

Ingredients

Bitter (Seville) oranges, juiced and zested — 2
Sugar — 1 cup (200 g / 7 oz)
Water, divided — 4 cups (960 ml / 32 fl oz)
Cinnamon stick — 1
Whole cloves — 2
Wormwood or gentian root, if available — 1 tsp (or omit for a simpler homemade version)
Sparkling water, to serve

Method

Combine the orange juice, zest, sugar, 2 cups of water, cinnamon and cloves in a saucepan.
Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes to infuse and slightly reduce.
Strain through a fine sieve into a jug, discarding the solids.
Add the remaining 2 cups of water and stir to combine, adjusting sweetness to taste.
Chill thoroughly, then serve diluted further with sparkling water and ice.

Introduction: A distinctive bittersweet soft drink flavoured with bitter oranges and aromatic herbs, one of Malta’s most recognisable exports.

Cultural Background: Kinnie has been produced commercially in Malta since the early twentieth century and remains a point of national pride, its unique bittersweet profile setting it apart from typical citrus sodas and making it a fixture at Maltese gatherings.

Tips: This homemade version approximates Kinnie’s bittersweet citrus profile; the commercial drink includes a proprietary blend of herbs not easily replicated at home. Taste and adjust the sugar and water ratio, as bitter orange intensity can vary.

Variations: Add a slice of fresh ginger while simmering for extra warmth. Serve with a slice of orange and a sprig of mint for garnish.

Storage: Store the concentrate in a sealed bottle in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Reheating: This drink is served cold and is not reheated.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 70 kcal, 0 g protein, 0 g fat, 18 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: Can I buy real Kinnie instead of making it at home?

A: Yes, it’s widely exported and available at

Q: Is Kinnie alcoholic?

A: No, it’s a non-alcoholic soft drink, though it is sometimes mixed into