Spicy Watermelon and Jalapeño Cooler

Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup granulated sugar
• Half a jalapeño, stem and seeds removed
• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 5 cups chopped seedless watermelon
• Ice for serving

Preparation:

1. Hot Jalapeño Syrup:
   In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup sugar with 1/2 cup water and cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat. Add the jalapeño and thyme and let steep for 5 minutes. Remove and discard the jalapeño, setting the thyme aside.
2. Pour the syrup into a blender and add the sliced ​​watermelon. Blend until smooth, about 2 minutes. Serve cold over ice, garnished with thyme sprigs from the syrup.