In the summer, our family rides a few miles to Windmill Island Gardens quite often. There is always one child eager to get there, one who is crying about why they have to bike, and another who just enjoys the easy ride. Dan and I love the vibe of the island—more authentically Dutch than any part of our little town, with its canals and windmill. It feels like the Netherlands in other ways too—lush manicured gardens and a block of community gardens that remind me of those on the side of every train track of every city in the real Holland. Also, there is a new space at Windmill Island Gardens that is available to rent. I’m so happy it is there because it is gorgeous and perfect for winter parties! Sunshine and living plants in the dead of winter? Yes, please.
This cocktail pairs well with winter holidays and greenhouse gatherings in the dead of February—with figs, which I associate with rich celebration. With warm flavors, it’s the perfect way to begin the festivities at Thanksgiving or any other winter THING you are planning.
The Vodka Fig
Serves 20 (in 10-ounce rocks glass filled halfway with ice or in 30 chilled coupe glasses)
3 cups sugar
3 cups water
30 sprigs thyme
10 fresh figs (quartered) or 2 cups frozen figs
8 cups vodka
1 cup Cointreau
4 cups thyme simple syrup
2 cups lemon juice
20 sprigs thyme (for garnish, optional)
15 halved fresh figs (for garnish, optional)
1 cup sparkling water, if desired
Make the thyme simple syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over low heat. Boil, then turn down heat.
Add figs and thyme. Simmer for 5 minutes on low, then cool for 5 minutes.
Remove figs and thyme. Strain over a glass measuring bowl until ready to use.
Make the cocktail:
In a one gallon jug, combine vodka with Cointreau.
Add the thyme simple syrup and lemon juice.
When ready to serve, pour into a serving pitcher or punch bowl with ice on the side. Add figs and thyme to garnish individual glasses. Splash with a bit of sparkling water to lighten it up if desired. Cheers!
Purchase the Lark Cocktails book for dozens more great recipes! #livinglark
Purchase Lark Cocktails, which features dozens of recipes just like this one!
