Batched Charred Lemon Gin + Tonic

We’re back with another episode of Gifts You Can Eat! This one is for all your cocktail-loving friends. A batched Charred Lemon G & T with EVERYTHING included but the ice!! See how it’s made here.

Ingredients

For the Rosemary Simple Syrup

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 sprig of rosemary, rinsed

For the Cocktail

• 1 tsp. high heat oil

• 9 lemons, sliced in half (to obtain 10 ounces charred lemon juice)

• 15 ounces becherovka

• 10 ounces gin

• 5 ounces rosemary simple syrup from above (or regular simple syrup) 

• 4 sprigs of rosemary, rinsed

• 8 cans of tonic water, for gifting

Special tools

• Citrus juicer (handheld works fine)

• Fine mesh sieve

• Funnel or pitcher with pour spout

• 4 x 8.5 ounce glass bottles (I used these ones)

• Ribbon and card stock

Make it!

1. Make your rosemary simple syrup first! In a small pan over medium, add the water and sugar. Stir to dissolve over the heat. Once dissolved, add the rosemary and simmer for 3-5 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it cool.

2. Make your charred lemon juice! Heat a cast iron pan over high heat and add the oil. Once the pan starts to smoke, add your lemons, cut side down. Check the lemons after 5 minutes and rotate around the pan if necessary. They should have a deep brown crust and be dripping with caramelized juice! Cool, juice, and strain. 

3. Assemble! In a large bowl, add 10 ounces charred lemon juice, 15 ounces Becherovka, 10 ounces gin, and 5 ounces rosemary simple syrup. Stir and transfer to a pitcher with a pour spout. Place a sprig of rosemary in each bottle and (if you have it) set a funnel in the bottle. Pour to the top and repeat with all bottles. 

4. Seal and label! Each bottle contains about 2 servings (4 ounces each). On a small card, write these instructions, “Fill a rocks glass with ice. Pour 4 ounces of Gin + Tonic. Top with Tonic Water and Stir.” Tell your giftee to store it in the fridge and enjoy within 3-5 days. Cheers!