Paprika Punch

Directions

1. 1
   In a saucepan, combine the sugar and 1/2 cup of water and simmer over low heat just until the sugar is dissolved.
2. 2
   Let cool.
3. 3
   Puree the pepper in a blender until smooth.
4. 4
   Strain the puree through a fine sieve set over a small bowl.
5. 5
   In a pitcher, combine the lemon juice with the 1/2 cup of simple syrup, 3 tablespoons of the bell pepper juice and the remaining 1/2 cup of water.
6. 6
   Stir in the rum and serve in tall glasses over ice.