Feni
DownloadDelicacy of Goa “Feni” is an alcoholic beverage. Feni means froth (small bubbles on the top of a liquid). This drink is a major attraction for tourists and a proud identity for locals. It is a drink made from cashew apples with a high alcohol content of over 45%, specifically produced in Goa. Only fully mature cashew apples that have naturally fallen from the tree are collected and brought for the extraction process in the conventional way of producing cashew feni. Even though it is an alcoholic drink, Feni offers many health benefits. Local beliefs suggest that Feni helps combat coughs and colds. It is also used as a traditional remedy for cuts and minor wounds due to its antiseptic qualities.
Feni’s Past and Present
In 1500, the Portuguese came to Goa. Observing the coastal soil, they introduced the cashew tree to help stabilise it, as the tree has a strong root system. Over time, the locals continued to grow these trees for cashew farming and to make Feni. Currently, Feni is celebrated as a traditional Goan spirit drink; its origin and cultural significance are now recognised by the government's Geographical Indication GI Tag. This tag safeguards its identity and promotes it in various national and international platforms.
Feni Making Process
Cashew tree or cashew apple tree produces pear-shaped pseudo-fruits, which are collected after they are completely ripened and fall on the surface naturally. This pseudo-fruit is divided into two parts: the nut, which is used as a dry fruit, and the flesh (apple), which is used to make Feni. Feni is made by crushing the fruit's flesh to extract the juice, which is then fermented and distilled without the inclusion of any foreign substances. Since the apples are only accessible in March, April, and May, the manufacturing of Feni is essentially limited to three months.
