URRAK Goa's Summer Spirit

In the heart of Goa's balmy summers, there lies a spirit that captures the essence of the season-Urrak.

- Aditi Malhotra

A lesser-known cousin of the famed Goan feni, Urrak is a seasonal distillate made from the first extract of cashew apple juice, and it has become a quintessential part of Goan summer festivities and culinary experiences.

The Origins of Urrak

Urrak's production is deeply entwined with the cashew harvesting season, which runs from late February to May. Unlike feni, which is distilled twice or thrice, Urrak is the product of just a single distillation of fermented cashew juice. This limited distillation process results in a milder, fruitier spirit with a lower alcohol content, making it perfect for the sweltering Goan summer. Historically, Urrak was considered a peasant's drink, enjoyed locally and rarely commercialized. However, its refreshing qualities and unique flavour profile have brought it into the limelight.

Urrak in Modern Goan Cuisine