8thinly sliced lemon peels(We use a cocktail garnish peeler and peel the equivalent of one lemon. We do this prior to grilling the lemon)
For the Cocktail
3grilled lemon wedges
2-4mint leaves
2ounceswhiskey
1ouncegrilled lemon simple syrup
fresh mint, for garnish
lemon wedge, for garnish
Instructions
Grilled Lemons
Prepare your grill for direct grilling targeting 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice 3 of the lemons in half and place over direct heat flesh side down. Slice the 4th lemon into slices, and place over direct heat. Grill for 5 – 7 minutes or until you see grill marks. The slices will cook faster. Set aside for the simple syrup and cocktail (save 2 lemons for the syrup, and the remaining for the cocktails).
Simple Syrup
Simmer: In a small sauce pan over medium heat add 1/2 cup grilled lemon juice, 1/2 cup water, sugar, and lemon peel. Bring to a light simmer for 15 minutes until the sugar dissolves and incorporates with the water and lemon juice.
Cool: Strain syrup to remove solids, and allow to cool.
Whiskey Smash Cocktail
Muddle: Place 3 ice cubes in a cocktail shaker with 3 grilled lemon wedges and 2-4 sprigs of mint. Muddle for 1 minute to release the juice and oils from the rind. Add the whiskey and grilled lemon simple syrup. Cover, shake, and then strain into a rocks glass with ice.
Serve: Garnish with a lemon wedge and fresh mint.
Notes
Note: You can see more detail in our article on how to grill lemons and what to do with them.