Turkish Signature Drink
Meet raki, the anise-flavoured drink Turkish Cypriots otherwise refer to as “Lion’s Milk”.
Although it is not known where or when this drink was invented, it is certain that the history of raki (Ra-Kuh)does not go as far back as wine or beer.
It’s the go-to spirit for celebrating any occasion or alternatively muting the pain of a job loss or the end of a relationship.
Raki is made from different fruits in different regions, but grapes, figs and plums are the main ones.
The best way to drink raki is with flat cylindrical glasses and cold – one can drink it with water, straight (sek), with soda or mineral water.
As it is quite potent, usually 40% – 50% alcohol levels, it is usually diluted with water.
Due to the aniseed it contains, raki changes colour and becomes a milky white when water is added – a glass of pure water to clean the palette allows drinkers to better enjoy the distinct pleasant taste.
Served at every restaurant, but traditionally associated with Cypriot tavernas otherwise known as meyhanes, Raki is usually accompanied with cold meze’s, meat or more so fresh fish, a local speciality.
If you clink glasses with fellow drinkers, clink with the bottom of your glass – if you use the top it tells your companion that you think you are superior to them. Also another tradition, you may decide to knock the table lightly with the bottom of your glass before you take a sip, indicating that there is someone you are thinking of who you wish was there.
Here is an NCY tip for any visitor trying this drink – after each glass, try having a Turkish tea (çay)served in small, tulip-shaped glasses – it will have a sobering and calming effect that will keep you more ready for the next round. It is frowned upon to get wobble from the raki table.
Whether it’s a celebration or commiseration spurred raki gathering, this drink and culture has a mysterious power to open up even the most reserved person.
Indeed some also refer to the raki table as çilingir (“locksmith”), alluding to the way the secrets of the heart are unlocked and spoken around this table.
Cheers! Shay-re-fe-nee-ze!