Fill a cocktail shaker or small pitcher with ice. Add the rum, lemongrass syrup, and lime juice. Cover and shake vigorously, or stir, until combined and chilled, about 30 seconds. (In general, by the time the shaker mists up the drink is ready.) Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with lime on the rim or the lemongrass spear in the drink. Serve.

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2 stalks fresh lemongrass, coarsely chopped

2 cups water

1 cup sugar

Place the lemongrass, water, and sugar into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes. Strain the mixture and cool. Cover and refrigerate for up to a week.

Yield: 2 cups