This is a little more involved than your average cocktail, but is worth the work. This has the perfect balance of sweet, spicy and sour flavors. The simple syrup and cucumber water can both be prepped in the morning (of a few days ahead) and kept in the refrigerator until serving.
Cucumber Water
-2 cucumbers, peeled and seeded
-1 jalapeno, seeded
Jalapeno Simple Syrup
-1 jalapeno, sliced
-1/2 c water
-1/2 c sugar
To assemble the cocktail
-2 oz gin
-1/2 oz jalapeno simple syrup
-1 oz cucumber water
-1/2 oz lime juice
To make the cucumber water; place cucumbers and jalapeno in a food processor and whirl for at least 1 minute, until it is completely smooth. Strain and chill before using.
To make the jalapeno simple syrup; place sugar, water and jalapeño in a small pot over medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring intermittently. Once sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and allow to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. Strain and refrigerate.
To serve; combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake, then pour into a serving glass. Garnish with a cucumber slice, jalapeno slice or lime wedge, enjoy.
