Fig Old Fashioned

Figs first started appearing at my farmers' market about a month ago, and while it marks the end of summer, there are so many fruits and veggies to appreciate during each season.  This recipe for a Fig Old Fashioned was first posted on The Kitchn back in October, but I had missed my opportunity to make it.  While it's not your typical Old Fashioned (whiskey/bourbon, bitters, sugar cube & citrus peel),  it mimics the flavors of one.  It's going to have a slightly thicker consistency because of the fig - you don't want to be chewing on seeds and pulp.  I actually added a bit more bourbon into mine so it would have a better liquid consistency (and I like my drinks a little stronger).  I'll be definitely be making this libation throughout the fall season, while I work my way through a bowl full of figs.

Fig Old Fashioned
Ingredients:

• 1 black mission fig
• 1/4 oz maple syrup (preferably Grade B)
• 1 1/2-2 oz bourbon (I used Bulleit)
• 1/2 oz fresh-squeezed orange juice
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar

- Cut the fig in quarters and place in a mixing glass with the maple syrup.
- Muddle into a paste.
- Add the bourbon, orange juice, balsamic vinegar and some ice, and shake.
- Double strain, using either a Boston Shaker or a traditional shaker and a small fine-mesh sieve, into a glass filled with ice or one large ice cube.