Rhubarberry G & T

Makes: 1 refreshing and very warm-weather appropriate G & T

Ingredients

Group A: G & T

• 1/4 cup gin of choice (omit if you want to make this a refreshing mocktail)

• 1/2 cup club soda or sparkling water

• 2 tbsp rhubarb syrup

• 1/2 tbsp strawberry jam (make your own, or use store-bought)

• 1/2 tbsp simple syrup (optional)

• 1/2 cup crushed ice

• 1 small sprig of mint, to garnish

Group B: Rhubarb syrup

• 1 stick of rhubarb

• 1 tbsp granulated brown sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup water

• Juice from 1/2 a lime

Method

• Make the rhubarb syrup: Chop up the rhubarb stick into 1/4" pieces. Add to a non-stick skillet with 1/2 cup water and all the other Group B ingredients, and mix well. Heat on medium-low for 5 - 8 minutes, till the rhubarb secretes juice and is soft and shredded. Transfer the mixture to a blender, add remaining 1/2 cup water, and blend into a purée. Strain to remove the solids. Refrigerate for up to a month.

• Make the G & T: To a highball glass (or 8 oz bottle, for some kitsch), add the strawberry jam and pour the rhubarb syrup over it. Add the crushed ice, then pour in the gin, exclaim how pretty it looks, then give it a quick stir. Top off with the club soda, garnish with fresh mint and enjoy!