Unlocking Goa’s Liquid Legacy: Cashew Feni, the Quintessential Goan Spirit
Feni or Fenny, is believed to have originated in the state of Goa, and it is thought to have been invented by the Portuguese and is now a traditional spirit synonymous with Goa just as Scotch is synonymous with Scotland, Tequila with Mexico, or Champagne with France! Cashew Feni, undoubtedly is Goa’s most famous triple or double distilled alcoholic spirit and depending on the process used, feni may even have 40% v/v alcohol.
Cashew Feni, a traditional Goan spirit, is a unique and cherished Goan drink made from the fermented juice of cashew apples. With its strong flavor and centuries-old heritage, Cashew Feni offers an authentic taste of Goa’s vibrant culture. This potent liquor, often enjoyed as a celebratory drink, is known for its artisanal production methods and unmistakable kick. Whether sipped straight or mixed into cocktails, it has become a must-try for visitors. Curious about its origin and how to best enjoy it?
Dive in to discover the rich history and unique appeal of Cashew Feni, and elevate your next Goa experience!
This article was originally published on 25th August 2008
This article was last edited with enhanced content on 25th September 2024
There are two types of non cashew feni, both of which are made from local ingredients. Coconut or palm feni is made from the sap drawn from the severed shoots on a coconut tree. This is known as toddy, in Goa and many other places in India and the men who collect the sap are toddy tappers. One can see toddy tappers working all year round. So palm feni is in plentiful supply at all times.
The more popular cashew feni is a spirit made mostly from the fermentation of cashew apple juice. It is served in restaurants and bars, and is also available for purchase in liquor stores.
The taste of feni varies, depending on the main ingredient, cashew apple , coconut sap, or palm sap which are then mixed with spices. Coconut feni is smoother and has a nutty flavor, while palm feni is stronger and has a more bitter taste. Cashew feni on the other hand has a fruity and strong flavor.
Feni is served in a variety of ways. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed with other drinks. It can also be used to make cocktails.It is affordable and easy to find. It is also a flavorful drink that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
So what is cashew feni and how is it made?
The Process of Making Cashew Feni
Cashew or kaju feni is made from cashew apples and can only be made during the cashew season in March and April, making it a seasonal activity. The traditional method of making cashew feni is called the pot still method. The process of making Cashew Feni is a lengthy one that takes about two weeks to complete.
The cashew apple, when ripe, turns a yellow-orange color and the nut ripens outside it. Yes cashew is one of the very few fruits where the nut grows outside the fruit.! When the fruit is harvested, the nuts are separated from the ‘apples’, and are laid out to dry in the sun. The apples meanwhile are placed in a pit and trampled by foot or crushed by juicer, to collect the juice.
Both palm toddy and Kaju juice can also be drunk fresh immediately after collection and are said to be delicious. They soon start to ferment if left for just a few hours.. The extracted juice is then transferred to a fermentation vessel and left to ferment for about 10 days.
In a typical local method, the juice is placed in a large terra-cotta pot over a wood fire; the vapour exits through a tube, which typically passes through an oil drum filled with water, below which the distillate is collected. The first distillate is called ‘Uraq’ or ‘Urak’, which is of a very low strength (10% to 15%), making it a pleasant alcoholic drink. Distilling twice more results in a good, potent feni.
Goan Feni is often flavoured with spices like cardamom, nutmeg and cinnamon.
By the time it comes out of the second distillation, Goa’s national drink has an alcoholic strength of around 30% to 35% proof and as per the locals, after third round it can go upto whopping 45% ! Beware how you consume it now!
Booking.comIt is said that Cashew Feni (Kaju Feni) will continue to ferment in bottles over time, so it’s best if it’s consumed within a few months of being made.
GI Tag – Geographical Indication Tag for Goan Feni
Goa’s Liquid Gem: Cashew Feni Receives GI Tag
Cashew Feni, the iconic Goan spirit, has now secured its Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition ensures exclusive brand protection for local producers. Feni received Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2009, recognizing its cultural and geographical significance. This legal protection ensures that only spirits produced in Goa using traditional methods can be labeled as “Feni”.
Feni , thus, joins the GI league of Mexico’s tequila, Japan’s sake, and Russia’s vodka. Sip slow, savor Goa. 🌴🥂
Cultural Significance of Goan Feni (Kaju Feni)
Feni plays a central role in Goan celebrations, festivals, and rituals, often symbolizing joy and togetherness. From weddings to religious events, Feni is served as a traditional drink, representing Goan hospitality. In local bars, restaurants, and liquor stores, Kaju Feni is widely available, giving both locals and tourists a taste of Goa’s cultural spirit. Many bars even craft unique Feni-based cocktails, blending tradition with modern flavors.
Wondering where to try this iconic Goan drink or how to enjoy it like a local? Read on!
How to drink Cashew Feni ?
Although the feni is ready for drinking soon as it has been collected, traditionally it is sealed in huge Terra-cotta jars and is left to mature for anything up to a number of years.
Many people enjoy drinking straight feni, but it also makes a very pleasant mix with other juices. Uraq goes well with a squeeze of lime, while feni tastes great mixed with cola drinks.
Goans often advice not to drink it on an empty stomach and mix with other spirits and certainly not to swim after a couple of fenis.
But the best you will hear is ‘you don’t realize how strong it is until you get up’.
Cashew Feni Cocktails
Mixing Cashew Feni with other cocktails is a great way to add a touch of Indian flavor to your drinks.
Cashew Feni cocktails are a delicious and unique way to enjoy this traditional Indian liquor. You may combine it with other flavors to create a unique and delicious cocktails. Some of the flavors that work well with Feni include citrus, ginger, and coconut.
The cocktails are perfect for a party or any other gathering and they are sure to be a hit with everyone. They are easy to make, and the ingredients can be easily found at most stores. If you are looking for a unique and delicious drink to enjoy, then be sure to try a Cashew Feni. Here are some recipes for you to try.
Feni Mojito
Crush the apple slices with the sugar in the bottom of a highball glass. Stir thoroughly and top with ice. Add the Kazkar Feni cashew apple liqueur, top off with apple juice and stir. Garnish with an apple wheel and lime wedge, and serve.
Ginger Feni
Add 60ml Feni to a tall glass and squeeze the ginger juice using a strainer.Drop in the ice cubes. Pour the lemonade into the glass from a height in short bursts
Urak or Uraq
Even Urak may be used to create innovative cocktails with Limca or Sprite and a wedge of lemon. 🙂
We will be happy if you share here your own recipes of cashew feni cocktails! 😀
Sustainability and Preservation
The sustainability of Cashew Feni production hinges on the seasonal nature of cashew apple harvesting, which occurs only during summer in Goa. This ensures that Feni is crafted from fresh, organic ingredients, maintaining its authentic flavor. Preserving these natural processes is vital for protecting Feni’s unique artisanal heritage.
Efforts to safeguard traditional Cashew Feni production are growing, with local initiatives focused on eco-friendly farming and artisanal distillation techniques. Supporting these sustainable practices ensures that Feni remains a symbol of Goa’s cultural legacy while minimizing environmental impact.
By choosing locally produced Cashew Feni, consumers support small-scale farmers and help preserve Goa’s rich traditions. Interested in making a difference? Your choice sustains both the environment and the cultural identity of this cherished Goan spirit for future generations.
Some Dos and Don’ts about Feni
- Do Not Swim After Consuming Feni: Swimming while intoxicated can impair judgment and coordination. Wait until the effects wear off for your safety.
- Do Not Drink It on an Empty Stomach: Feni can quickly lead to intoxication and nausea without food. Pair it with a hearty meal for a better experience.
- Mix Feni with Other Alcoholic Drinks at Your Own Risk: Mixing feni with other spirits can increase intoxication and hangover risk. Proceed with caution if you choose to mix.
- Urak is Milder and Fruitier than Cashew Feni: Urak, made from the first distillation of cashew apples, offers a lighter, fruitier alternative to traditional cashew feni (kaju Feni)
- If You Can Handle It, Drink Neat: Drinking feni neat allows you to appreciate its unique flavors and aromas fully. Just remember to pace yourself!
- Sip Responsibly: Feni is a strong drink, usually around 30-40% alcohol, so take your time with it! Savor its unique flavors and embrace the lively Goan vibe—after all, no one wants a feni hangover to spoil their beach day!
- Know Its Strength: Feni might seem harmless, but it has a kick! Even if you’re a seasoned drinker, it’s wise to keep track of how much you’ve had. One too many might lead to some unexpected table dancing! Always be aware of your limits.
- Pair with Local Cuisine: Elevate your feni experience by enjoying it alongside delicious Goan dishes like spicy vindaloo or flavorful fish curry. The bold tastes of the food and feni create an unforgettable culinary adventure!
- Understand Its Uniqueness: Remember, feni is one-of-a-kind to Goa, made from either cashew apples or coconut sap. It’s unlike vodka or rum, offering its own distinct flavor and aroma. For the best experience, opt for GI-tagged feni to ensure authenticity!
- Explore Distilleries: For a deeper dive into the world of feni, visit a local distillery. You’ll get to learn about the traditional distillation process and sample different varieties. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Goa’s rich culture while enjoying this beloved spirit!
Useful Information about Goa
More about Cashew Feni
- Feni Tasting in Goa
Ever done a wine tasting? Now, try a feni tasting at a local distillery. Warning: You might not be able to walk out as gracefully as you walk in. - Cashew Feni vs Coconut Feni
Can’t decide between cashew feni and coconut feni? Cashew is the crowd favorite with its fruity punch, while coconut is the less famous but smoother sibling. Pro tip: Try both and see which one feni-shes first! - How to Drink Feni Like a Local
Straight up or with limca, feni is best enjoyed with friends by a Goan beach shack. It’s Goa’s version of a pick-me-up—or a knock-me-down depending on how much you drink. - Feni and Its Potent Aroma
If you’re wondering why feni smells so strong, it’s because it’s naturally distilled. Don’t worry, after a few sips, you’ll forget all about it! - Best Places to Try Feni
Sip on feni at local joints like Mish Mar, Martin’s Corner, or even at Goa’s famous beach shacks like Curlies. It’s Goa in a glass—salty, fruity, and unforgettable! - Feni: Goa’s Liquid Heritage
UNESCO Intangible Heritage status for feni? Yes, please! This drink is as old as Goa’s Portuguese history, giving it a rich cultural background to savor with each sip. - How Feni is Made?
The process of making feni is as fascinating as it is laborious. Cashew apples are crushed, fermented, and then distilled in traditional earthen pot-ovens called bhattis. Who knew getting tipsy could have such a long backstory? - Feni Cocktails for Beginners
Not a fan of drinking feni neat? Mix it into cocktails like Feni Mojitos or Feni Coladas. It’s Goa’s answer to your classic pina colada—tropical, strong, and very vacation-worthy. - Health Benefits of Feni
Did you know feni has antibacterial properties? It’s like medicine—if medicine tasted like Goa in a bottle. Some even say it helps digestion, but that might just be an excuse for more rounds! - Feni and Goan Cuisine Pairing
Pair your cashew feni with spicy Goan dishes like sorpotel or vindaloo. The fiery food and punchy feni create a match made in Goan heaven. - Feni’s Legal Drinking Age
Heads up! The legal drinking age in Goa is 18. So, make sure you’re of age before diving into feni—you wouldn’t want your Goan vacation to end with a fine! - Feni at Goan Weddings
A true Goan wedding isn’t complete without free-flowing feni. Just make sure not to challenge a Goan uncle to a feni drinking contest—you’ll lose. - Feni Production in Goa
Feni is produced mostly in South Goa, in places like Ponda and Sattari. If you’re looking for an authentic Goan experience, visit a local feni distillery tour. - Feni and Its Hangover Reputation
Contrary to popular belief, feni is less likely to give you a hangover because it’s pure and organic. But let’s be real—moderation is key, or you might wake up hugging a coconut tree! - Buying Feni as a Souvenir
Bringing home feni as a souvenir? Buy it from local liquor stores or flea markets, and make sure it’s GI-tagged feni to guarantee authenticity. Your friends will either thank you or ask for water! - Feni Festivals in Goa
Don’t miss the annual Feni Utsav (Feni Festival) in Goa, where you can drink, dance, and celebrate this beloved local spirit. Just be sure to pace yourself—it’s a marathon, not a sprint! - Feni and the Goan Susegad Lifestyle
Feni is more than a drink—it’s a lifestyle. Embrace the laid-back Susegad vibe of Goa by sipping feni slowly, with the sound of the waves as your background music. - Feni: The Goan Party Starter
Forget the usual vodka or rum. In Goa, the real party starts with feni. It’s your ultimate Goan pregame drink that’ll get the beach bonfire going—literally and figuratively! - Feni’s Eco-Friendly Distillation Process
Feni is an eco-friendly drink made using natural fermentation. It’s Goa’s gift to the world that not only tastes good but is sustainable. Drink feni, save the planet—one sip at a time!
Tips and Tidbits about Goa
- Best Time to Visit: The peak tourist season is from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- Local Language: Konkani is the local language, but English and Hindi are widely spoken.
- Rent a Scooter: Renting a scooter is the most convenient and fun way to explore Goa. Don’t forget your driving license!
- Party Scene: Head to North Goa for vibrant nightlife and famous beach parties, especially in areas like Baga and Anjuna.
- Peaceful South Goa: For a more relaxed, laid-back vibe, South Goa offers quieter beaches like Palolem, Agonda, and Butterfly Beach.
- Dudhsagar Falls: Visit these stunning four-tiered waterfalls, especially during the monsoon season, for breathtaking views and a fun trek.
- Beach Shacks: Try out local beach shacks for delicious Goan seafood and a relaxed dining experience right on the sand.
- Portuguese Architecture: Explore Old Goa for its beautiful colonial churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.
- Sunset Cruise: Take a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River to experience scenic views and some cultural performances.
- Local Markets: Don’t miss the vibrant flea markets at Anjuna and Mapusa for handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Alcohol is Cheap: Goa has low taxes on alcohol, making it one of the cheapest places to enjoy drinks in India.
- Water Sports: Get adventurous with water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, and windsurfing, particularly on beaches like Calangute and Baga.
- Casinos: Goa is one of the few places in India where gambling is legal. Visit the floating casinos in Panjim for a night of fun.
- Respect the Culture: While Goa is liberal, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites like churches and temples.
- Beach Cleanliness: Though popular, North Goa beaches can get crowded and messy. If you want cleaner, less commercialized beaches, head to South Goa.
- Goan Cuisine: Try local Goan dishes like fish curry rice, pork vindaloo, and bebinca (a local dessert).
- Night Markets: The Arpora Saturday Night Market is a fun place to shop, eat, and enjoy live music under the stars.
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: Visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary or the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary for a break from the beaches.
- Local Festivals: If you’re in Goa during February/March, don’t miss the Goa Carnival, a lively festival with parades, music, and street performances.
- Sunset Views: For some of the best sunset views, visit Chapora Fort, a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike.
Goa Weather
The weather in Goa is sultry, tropical, with a wet and a dry season. The temperature is usually around 30 degrees Celsius, with a fair amount of humidity. The rainy season is from June to September, and the rest of the year is mostly dry. While December to February is the best time to visit, as it is not as hot and the rains have stopped, Goa in rains has its own charm.
Where to stay in Goa, India
There are accommodations available in Goa for every budget and preference. You may check out the following links as per your choice.
For best deals in Luxury hotels, Click here
For best deals in Midrange hotels, Click here
For best deals in budget hotels, Click here
How to reach Goa, India?
Goa, India is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich Portuguese heritage. If you’re wondering how to reach Goa, here’s a breakdown of the best travel options:
By Air: The most convenient way to reach Goa is by flying into Dabolim International Airport (GOI), which is well-connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and even international destinations. Many airlines offer regular flights, especially during the tourist season.
By Train: For budget travelers or those who love scenic journeys, Goa is accessible via rail. Key railway stations include Madgaon Junction and Vasco da Gama. Popular trains like Konkan Kanya Express and Mandovi Express provide beautiful views of the Western Ghats.
By Road: If you’re up for a road trip, Goa is well-connected by national highways. You can drive or take buses from cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore. The journey along the NH66 offers breathtaking coastal views.
By Sea: Though less common, some luxury cruises from Mumbai operate during the tourist season. If you’re looking for an adventurous and unique way to travel, this can be a memorable option.
Getting around Goa
Once in Goa, you can easily explore with scooter rentals or hire taxis for local sightseeing. Other option is to hire a cab. We once explore a part of it using only public transport. It is cheap! However it takes a lot of time to go from one place to another. It is effective but not efficient 🙂
Summary
Goan cashew feni, an iconic local beverage, stands distinct in the vast world of alcoholic drinks, holding its place among global favorites like whisky, wine, beer, and gin. Its production, employing traditional pot distillation methods using earthen pots, has been a craft passed down through generations. Unlike mass-produced drinks like whiskey or bourbon, cashew feni is fermented naturally without the use of added yeast, drawing parallels with artisanal beverages like American moonshine, Irish whiskey, or even coconut palm arrack from various regions. With an ABV (alcohol by volume) that varies, feni offers a unique taste, blending the rich flavor of cashew apples.
In the face of global regulations, from the United States’ prohibition era to Australia’s temperance movements, feni has managed to carve its niche, thanks to Goa’s relaxed laws around alcohol consumption. It thrives in a state known for its coconut feni, small distilleries, and rich heritage. While other nations like Russia, Scotland, and Canada may be known for their vodka, scotch, and rye, Goa’s feni remains unmatched in flavor and local identity. This distinct drink, often compared to beverages like arak or shochu, reflects the diverse and flavorful history of India’s alcohol culture, from desi daru to more refined products.
Though feni is consumed across various settings, from bars to local celebrations, it faces competition from more widely known spirits such as malt whisky, baijiu, and sherry. However, cashew feni remains a symbol of Goan tradition, much like the coconut palm feni produced in small quantities. It serves as a reminder of how local, artisanal beverages can stand proudly alongside world-renowned drinks, holding their own in the vast landscape of alcohol consumption.
#TraditionalBeverage #AlcoholCulture #WorldSpirits #IndianDrinks
FAQ about Goan Cashew Feni
What is cashew feni?
Feni is Goa’s iconic local spirit, distilled from cashew apples or coconut sap. It’s as Goan as beaches and sunsets—only stronger!
Is feni sold in the US?
If you’re a fan of Goa’s iconic feni, you might be wondering: Can I buy feni in the US? The short answer? It’s complicated—like trying to explain why cashew apples are different from regular apples.
Feni is a unique Goan spirit with a strong flavor and equally strong cultural roots. However, it’s not widely exported to the US due to import restrictions and its GI (Geographical Indication) status—a fancy way of saying, “You need to be in Goa to fully appreciate it!”
While feni hasn’t reached the mass market in the US like rum or tequila, there are niche stores and specialty liquor outlets that may carry limited bottles of cashew or coconut feni. But finding it is a bit like searching for a Goan shack in New York City—possible, but rare!
What does feni taste like?
Feni has a bold, earthy flavor with a fruity punch from cashew apples or a smoky sweetness from coconut sap. Its sharp, fiery taste is an acquired love—like a Goan beach: wild, raw, and unforgettable!
How much alcohol is in feni?
Can you buy feni outside Goa?
Feni is mainly available in Goa, but some specialty liquor stores stock it. Just remember to ask for the authentic, GI-tagged feni—nobody wants to sip a fake!
How should I drink feni?
You can enjoy feni neat, on the rocks, or mixed in cocktails. Try it with lime soda for a refreshing twist. Just don’t forget to grab a snack—you’ll need it!
Click here for details.
What’s the best way to experience feni?
The ultimate feni experience is at a local distillery! Sip straight from the source while learning about its rich history. It’s like a boozy out of the world field trip—fun, educational, and definitely memorable!
What is the significance GI Tagging of Feni?
Feni’s GI (Geographical Indication) tag status is significant because it recognizes the spirit as a unique product specific to Goa, protecting its heritage and production methods. This status ensures that only Feni produced in the traditional manner within Goa can be labeled as such, safeguarding its authenticity. The GI tag also boosts local economies by promoting Feni as a premium, artisanal product. For consumers, it guarantees quality and origin, while for Goa, it preserves a cultural legacy that dates back centuries, distinguishing Feni from other liquors and enhancing its global recognition.
How has modernization affected Feni production?
While traditional methods are preserved, modern tools like copper distillation pots have replaced earthenware, balancing tradition with efficiency and hygiene.
Copyright
This article and all the photographs used in this article belong to the owners of this website www.lemonicks.com. Copying or using them without explicit permission is prohibited and will amount to copyright infringement.
i had bought cashew feni from goa when i went there… for bro and dad of course but they didn’t quite like it…
i havent tried it …
did u like it?
PS: also reminds me of ‘king uncle’, anu aggarwal was called Fenny in that 😛
havnt tried it, but want to try it one day… we @ kerala have our own liquor like this – the toddy which is taken from coconut trees. May be i will do a post on that one day 🙂 thanks for the idea.
Very interesting photo essay:-)
Some more points :
Feni stinks terribly.
After consuming Feni, if you go out in open air/breeze, you go higher and higher 🙂
To reduce the high, eat bananas. 🙂
You are in love with Goa 😉
I have tried Kaju Feni but didn’t like it. Yep it is really strong but the best thing about Feni is that i doesn’t give hang overs(Thats what the locals say and even i felt the same 🙂 )
You know what, I never knew that cashew looked like that. Always thought it was just a nut.
dont want to discourage you out of trying it…….but it tastes strange. And i have had some strange drinks in my lifetime.
To survive a sip of this one though you need a strong stomach and whacked-out tastebuds!
wow! close to 50% alcohol. that must be a strong drink….too drink for me! I hate alcohol. Love beer though. any beer drinks?
ps- Sorry I have been MIA. Traveling didn’t give me enough time to check blogs!!!! I’m back now though!!!
i can see that you are still high on Goa 🙂
Can’t believe that you forgot to bring a bottle of Feni together with your comment to my post of 08.08.08 at 08h08 at Blogtrotter, now in Kos, Greece! ;)) Missed it… :((
But it’s great to read you here, and learn all this for my future experience in Goa. One day…
Take care. Wish you a great week!
Obviously to be consumed with moderation!
Vandita,
We bought one bottle each of both types. I am yet to try it but looking at the comments I here hmmm… I’ll have to think. 😛
LOL@Your Fenny 😀
Anoop,
I think wherever we have palm or coconut trees, the liqour must be available in some form or the other.
Aha !! So when are you posting ? 😀
Abhijit,
Thank you.
Eat bananas ??? Weird solution it is. 😛
I hope you not kidding.
Amey,
Love ??? I think it’s called obsession. 😛
Raghu,
Yes, I heard that it stinks and no hangover ?? Are you sure ? It’s way too concentrated.
Jenny,
Welcome to my blog. Ha Ha… it happens. We are so ignorant about certain things.
Thanks for your visit. Keep coming.
N,
Hmmmm… now you are discouraging me from tasting it. 😛
Heyy,N, keep coming. I love your comment.
Matt,
I have been reading your posts. No need to say sorry, you are nourishing us well thru your stories.
Lakshmi,
Ha Ha you bet !
Trotter,
Yes, I checked your post. Thank you.
Peter,
Ha Ha you bet !
I was being polite 😉
Amey,
Ha Ha Ha…. you always leave me clueless as what to say next. 😀
Long time no see. How’re you doing ?
Feni smells awful and the few drops that I’ve tasted had put me off.
Freshly tapped toddy is delicious and sweet, and low on alcohol content. I’ve also eaten plucked-directly-from-tree juicy cashew apples when their alcohol content is almost negligible. Oh, they can be bright red in colour too.
Encyclopedia on Goa.. lol.. Whoever said that was right. 😛
Great post! I am not particularly fond of Feni though. I guess it is an acquired taste…
Celine,
Yes dear, I also heard so. Now you don’t discourage me from tasting it. I have bought two bottles… one each of Kaju and coconut feni.
LOL @ Encyclopedia. :p
Shantanu,
Thank you. I haven’t tasted it yet. 😀
I liked your post particularly explainiong the process involved in the prepartion of fenny. We also bought few bottles but it really has a dirty smell. We did consume while in Goa together with lime, soda and salt and pretended to enjoy. Thanks.
PNS,
Welcome to my blog. Hope you are enjoying your time here. 🙂
Even we bought 2 bottles to be tasted after coming back but after listening to all my well-wishers I doubt if we are going to taste it any time. 😀
All are saying it stinks and tastes bad. It has to be mixed with something. So, at present the bottles are adorning one corner of our house. 😀
Thanks for your visit, I like when people really take time out to comment.
Very nice.
With your new site design, I am able to see earlier posts and they are lovely
A,
Thank you.
That was the idea. Explore at your leisure, the site has lots of treasures hidden. 🙂
.-= Nisha´s last [post] ..Come and have a look =-.
Nice post…looking forward to try out the feni. 🙂
hhmmm, interesting!
Isn’t it? 🙂
Kaju (cashew) Feni is actually one of my favorite drinks, you should try it mixed with sprite and it will taste like ‘Appy Fizz’ trust me. I have some goan friends who produce it at their home, whenever I visit India they make sure i get feni drunk 😉
Recipe: I once mixed it with 1 part whisky and 1 part beer, in a few minutes, I was on the moon 😉
Janit,
Have you tried it now? 😛
Saurabh,
Oh no! I am not going to try your recipe. Too dangerous.
Though I can try the other alternative of taking it with Sprite. 🙂
Urrack and feni are not mass produced and are made using traditional methods of distilling the cashew juice over a fire in mud sealed drums. There’s no preservative or artificial flavor in the drink which makes it an organic drink.
I quite enjoy cashew feni… infact, when I’m in Goa, I drink either cashew feni or beer.
If it is a good, matured feni, I sip it on the rocks… else, I drink feni with half Lemonade & half water (cuts the sweetness of the lemonade).
I have once been in Goa in May and have been lucky to taste fresh Uraak – the product of the first distillation in the feni distillation process. Fresh Urqak is available during the cashew season – around May, June. It is different from feni, with a slightly sourish tinge and a very fresh favour.
Thank you for this wonderful deep dive into Cashew Feni! I had no idea it had such a rich history and cultural significance in Goa
I’ve never heard of Cashew Feni, this is amazing and I should try it. I’ve never been to Goa, I would love to explore this beautiful state….
I have also never heard of Cashew Feni, but it sounds like a really interesting thing to try! Thank you for sharing all about it.
45 %?? That is not playing around at all, lol. one sip and it’d be all she wrote for me. 🙂
Thanks for sharing this detailed story, I learnt about The Process of Making Cashew Feni now. Cheers SiennyLovesDrawing