Uncovering the Secrets of Rak: Your Comprehensive Guide to Turkey's National Drink
Probably, you won't find it in a pharmacy.
Rak, also known as Löwenmilch, is the national beverage of Turkey, crafted from double-distilled grape must and anise seeds.
In Turkey, Rak carries significant weight. Whether celebrating a promotion, birthday, or coping with job losses or the end of relationships, it plays an essential role.
However, savoring Rak isn't always feasible everywhere or with anyone.
Many variables hinge on a simple code and are mutually dependent.
Tavern Etiquette
Different occasions necessitate distinct Raki varieties.
When celebrating, you might gather six to eight individuals at the Raki table. For larger events like weddings or celebrations, up to 25 people may assemble.
For events of such scale, locations like Zarifi, an Istanbul bistro known for its classical Turkish music followed by a belly dance performance, could be suitable.
Many of these bars offer Fasil Ekibi – a group of male musicians who regale listeners with traditional tunes on instruments like Ney (reed flute), Saz or Kanun (both string instruments).
Raki sessions often end in a fitting finale: dancing on tables and chairs.
But when individuals congregate around a Raki table to mend broken hearts, the atmosphere becomes intimate: two to four close friends.
The location may still be a tavern, yet in such situations, music plays subtly in the background, and conversation takes center stage.
Rak therapy
However, the Raki gathering transforms into a sort of group therapy session, where a friend shares their problems, others offer advice, and periodic pauses are taken to reflect on life's meaning.
These discussions explain why Raki tables are often called Cilingir Sofrasi, meaning "knight's table."
In translation, Raki boasts an enigmatic power that can open even the most reserved hearts.
Whether revelry or empathy served as the catalyst for the Raki session, the subsequent discussions generally transpire along a typical progression.
They begin with gentle topics concerning work and daily life. After one or two ice-cold Highball glasses of Raki, the discussion gradually shifts towards politics.
Politically, Raki itself plays a significant role.
In 2013, Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, head of the social conservative Justice and Development Party, declared that Ayran, a yogurt-based drink, rather than Raki, was the Turkish national drink. His statement probably benefited him.
Ayran holds Turkish hearts dearly (it pairs well with kebabs), yet it isn't renowned for inciting heartwarming discussions or lively feasts, let alone Dance on the Table sessions.
Raki's unique bond with the Turkish culture is deeper because it unites people regardless of gender, age, or social status (although most Turks at least nominally follow Islam).
The Raki table usually gathers around 7:00 PM. Nightfall often finds it lingering long past midnight, with guests continuing their feast.
These edibles help lessen Raki's impact upon the stomach to a certain extent - Raki has a 45% alcohol content.
Mezes are Turkish appetizer-like dishes that offer the perfect culinary pairing for Raki, allowing you to indulge throughout the night.
Therefore, follow this advice: indulge at the Raki table until you stumble home late in the evening, yet avoid becoming drunk.
Melon Fascinations
Although main courses like meat and fish follow, the first dishes to arrive on the table are Feta cheese and melon.
Once these dishes appear, the waiter will ask if you'd like to open a bottle.
Newcomers should request a 35-cl bottle (one-third liter), informing the waiter that everyone wants a Tek (4 cl) - approximately a glass.
Experienced Raki drinkers often opt for a double serving (8 cl).
After pouring Raki into the glass, you must ask the waiter if you want water and ice.
First-timers should answer "Yes" to both questions.
Raki is always served with ice water – although some Raki enthusiasts claim that ice diminishes the beverage's flavor.
Take a bite of cheese and a slice of melon, then enjoy a sip of Raki while toasting to good health for all present.
When toasting, remember to ensure the glass bottom taps: it's a compliment to the person being toasted.
Now, clink your glass. The hypnotic scent of anise may seem strange at first but quickly becomes pleasant. Even if you dislike Raki, acquiesce – it's expected.
People might be offended if you opt for an alternative beverage during a Raki session.
Sooner or later, a large platter of chilled antipasti will be served.
Delicacies to sample include hummus (pureed chickpeas with garlic), piyaz (green bean salad), and cacik (cold yogurt with cucumber, garlic, and dill).
Warm dishes (sleeping-warm) follow, like Borek (cheese-filled pastry parchments), kebab, and mussel guvec (cooked in butter).
As healing wisdom, engaging conversations, and Raki itself – every element at the table is meant to be shared.
Happy toast!
Notice
This guide offers insights for newcomers to the world of Raki. Be mindful of your own limitations and drink responsibly.
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To properly order and drink Raki with friends and family in a Turkish tavern, follow these guidelines:
- Ordering Raki:
- When you're ready to order, simply say "Rakı" (pronounced "rah-kee"). For a more specific request, you can opt for "Türk Rakısı" (Turkish Raki).
- Eating & Drinking:
- The Raki table, or "Raki Sofrası," is where friends and family gather to drink Raki together.
- Before consuming the drink, you'll add water. Traditionally, this is served in small glasses.
- Sharing food is an essential part of the Raki experience. Delicacies like meze (small dishes), feta, and melon are popular choices.
- Musicians called fasıl ekibi can occasionally be found in taverns. They play traditional tunes on instruments like the Ney, Saz, or Kanun.
- Respectful Drinking:
- Control is key when drinking Raki. Consume it in modest portions, appreciating the company and the experiences shared.
- Toasting with Raki is common, allowing you to show respect to each other. Say "Şerefe" ("shay-reh-feh") in Turkish to say "cheers."
By following these guidelines, you'll have the perfect Raki experience, celebrating this iconic Turkish drink in an authentic and enjoyable manner.
