Figs don’t often make their way into cocktails. They’re more at home on a cheese board or tucked into a tart than swirling around with ice and vodka. But this martini changes all that – it turns the humble fig into the star of the glass.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe figs, plus extra slices for garnish
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 shot (25ml) fresh lemon juice
• 2 shots (50ml) vodka
• 1 shot (25ml) elderflower liqueur
• Ice cubes
• Fresh thyme sprigs, to garnish

Method

1. Scoop the pulp from the figs into a cocktail shaker. Add the honey and lemon juice, then muddle gently until the figs break down and release their juices.
2. Pour in the vodka and elderflower liqueur. Add a handful of ice cubes and shake well for about 20 seconds until the mixture is icy and well blended.
3. Double strain the cocktail into two chilled martini glasses to catch any fig seeds or pulp.
4. Float a thin slice of fresh fig on top of each drink and finish with a sprig of thyme for a fragrant touch.