Mumbai (Harshit Yadav), November 07: Feni is part of Goa’s rich cultural heritage. It is a strong and unique traditional alcohol in India that stands out from the rest. Feni is made from cashew apples or coconut sap and has a rich historical background in the region. The production process is notably different and involves passing down the recipe through generations.
Here’s a look at what makes Feni special, from its origins to how to best enjoy it.
The History and Origins of Traditional Alcohol: Feni.
Feni shares both ancient and colonial history with the regions of Goa. Its roots date back to the times of Portuguese colonial power and local customs. “Feni” is a derivative of the Sanskrit word “phena”, meaning froth. It is caused by the bubbles that appear when the beverage is poured or shaken.
In the beginning, only traditional coconut Feni was made. However, when the Portuguese brought the cashew tree from Brazil to Goa, it became the base for the production of Feni. Today, it is one of the traditional drinks in Goan culture. It is over hundreds of years old. Due to local making practices, the authentic Feni is only found in Goa.
Types of Feni-
Feni comes in two main types:
- Cashew Feni
- Coconut Feni
Cashew Feni is made from the juice of cashew apples, while coconut Feni is made from the distillation of fermented toddy. Cashew Feni has a fruity and powerful taste, while coconut Feni is more subtle and has a mild flavour. Both types of Feni are very strong, with cashew Feni containing an alcohol content of up to 45%, making it a different variety of traditional alcohol.
The Unique Production Process of Goa’s Traditional Alcohol.
Art and science are involved in the production of Feni. For cashew feni, only naturally fallen tree-ripened cashew apples are collected. These fruits are then mashed with feet in a stone basin called a “collmi,” and the cloudy juice that is rich in tannins is released.
Consequently, the vegetables start to ferment on their own, thus producing the unique taste of the alcohol that is beloved by the locals. The fermentation vessels are usually earthy pots that go by the name of “matheche bhann,”. Further, in making alcohol, the cashew juice ferments in these iron-rich pots.
The Distinctive Distillation Process of Feni.
In Goa, Feni is usually made by distilling it in a “forno” (a distillation shed), where a copper pot known as a “bhatti” is used. The fermented juice is boiled, and the vapours are transported through a condensation pipe, which produces a distilled spirit. Cashew Feni (Fennel Fruit) goes through a three-phase distillation process. As a result, the flavour and robustness of the cashew Feni reaches an unprecedented level.
The procedure for coconut Feni, on the other hand, is generally less time-consuming and requires only two distillations. The skill involved in each step, from examining the bubble sizes to the fermentation time management, has been honed over centuries, making Feni a celebrated traditional alcohol in Goa.
Cultural Significance and Geographical Indication.
Feni is not just alcohol. It is a cultural icon. In 2009, cashew Feni was given a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. It was designated as an exclusive Goan product. This ensured its authenticity. As a heritage brew, Feni is often recognized as a true symbol of Goan pride. This label also implies that only the Feni distilled in Goa by traditional methods can be called formula. By doing its authenticity will be preserved for future generations.
Popular Ways to Enjoy Traditional Alcohol Like Feni.
Even though it is strong, Feni can be consumed in different ways. The common way of its consumption is in a glass, either neat or with ice. People who would like to take it to another level can choose cola, lemonade, or tonic water as their favourite mixers. It results in refreshing cocktails full of flavour and flavour of the Feni.
Other residents find it still more rewarding to add sugar or lime to develop the taste of the cocktail. Many others prefer to add it to Goa dishes such as pork Vindaloo, thus getting a wonderful sour taste, which would be a great pleasure for them.
Feni is not only a drink but also a proof of the history, craftsmanship, and pride of Feni. Whether you sit on the sand and sip your cashew Feni or drink coconut Feni in a cocktail, this traditional alcohol is an authentic taste of Goa’s culture. So, if you happen to be in Goa next time, ensure you don’t leave the place until you experience this part of the Goan culture, which is unique and unforgettable.
It results in refreshing cocktails full of flavour and flavour of the Feni.
