Honey Fig Gin and Tonic

For the Honey Fig Simple Syrup

• 8 fresh figs
• 1 c water
• 0.5 c honey

For the Cocktail

• 2 oz gin
• 0.25-0.5 oz honey fig simple syrup
• Pinch of pink pitaya powder (optional)
• 3 oz low-sugar tonic water
• Fresh fig slices for garnish
• Sprig of thyme for garnish

1. To make the honey fig simple syrup, cut the figs into quarters. Combine them with the water and honey, bring to a boil, and then reduce to a low boil. Boil until the mixture has reduced significantly and turned a light purple color, about 10-15 minutes. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Keep an eye on it and don't let it go too far.
2. Strain the simple syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the fig pulp (you can use the cooked figs as an add-in to yogurt or oatmeal).
3. Put the simple syrup in a jar or container and chill it for at least several hours.
4. In a cocktail stirring glass, combine the gin with the simple syrup and optional pink pitaya powder. Stir with ice.
5. Strain into a highball glass over ice; use a fine mesh strainer if you added pink pitaya powder.
6. Top with tonic water to fill the glass.
7. Garnish with fig slices and a sprig of thyme.
8. Store any additional simple syrup in the fridge for up to a couple weeks.