Buddha's Hand Gimlet-Tini

To prepare cordial: Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stir in Buddha's hand (or lemon) peel. Adjust heat to maintain a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Strain (reserve candied peel for garnish, if desired) and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.

To prepare 1 cocktail: Combine vodka (or gin), vermouth and 3/4 ounce of the cordial in an ice-filled cocktail shaker and shake. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with strips of candied or fresh Buddha's hand (or lemon) peel, if desired.