1/2 lb. fresh ginger, cut into 1/4-inch-thick "coins"
1 cinnamon stick
pinch of cayenne pepper
sparkling water
Directions :
Bring sugar, ginger, cinnamon stick and 2 cups of water to boil in a large saucepan. Simmer 5 minutes, then remove from heat, and stir in cayenne pepper. Let cool.
Strain liquid into a small pitcher, and discard ginger and cinnamon.
To serve: Ladle 1/4 cup ginger syrup into tumbler and fill with ice. Top with 3/4 cup sparkling water and stir.