Thyme Out

Ingredients

• 8 lemons, halved
• 16 sprigs of thyme
• Ice cubes
• 4 cups ice water
• 1 1⁄2 cups vodka
• 1⁄2 cup agave or simple syrup (see Note)

Directions

1. Wipe the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Build a high-heat fire. Your high-heat zone should have embers 1 to 2 inches from the cooking surface, with occasional flames licking it.
2. Place the lemons, cut side down, over high heat until they are charred and soft, about 3 minutes. While the lemons char, using tongs, hold 8 of the thyme sprigs over high heat just until they start to color and give off wisps of smoke.
3. Add the remaining 8 thyme sprigs to a cocktail shaker, squeeze in the lemon juice, and add a couple ice cubes. Shake very well and strain into a pitcher. Add the ice water, vodka, and agave, and stir until the agave is dissolved.
4. Serve the drinks in ice-filled glasses garnished with a charred thyme sprig.