Caju feni is a unique and flavorful spirit that is native to Goa. Traditionally, it is made using cashew apples, which are abundant in the region. However, it can also be made using other fruits, such as mangoes or pineapples. If you are interested in making caju feni at home, here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Ingredients:
10 kg of cashew apples (or other fruit)
2.5 kg of jaggery (unrefined cane sugar)
10 litres of water
Equipment:
Large pot
Wooden masher
Muslin cloth
Fermentation vessel (clay pot or glass jar)
Distillation apparatus (copper pot still)
Step 1: Harvest and wash the fruit
If you are using cashew apples, harvest them when they are fully ripe and have fallen from the tree. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Remove the juice
Use a wooden masher to extract the juice from the fruit. Mash the fruit in a large pot until it is fully broken down and the juice has been extracted.
Step 3: Add jaggery and water
Add the jaggery and water to the pot, and stir until the jaggery has fully dissolved.
Step 4: Ferment the mixture
Transfer the mixture to a fermentation vessel, such as a clay pot or glass jar. Cover the vessel with a muslin cloth to allow air to circulate. Leave the mixture to ferment for 2-3 days, or until bubbles start to appear on the surface.
Step 5: Distill the mixture
Once the mixture has fermented, it is ready to be distilled. Transfer the mixture to a copper pot still and heat it slowly. As the mixture heats up, the alcohol will start to vaporize and travel up the still. The vapour will then condense in the cooling coil and turn into liquid alcohol, which can be collected in a container.
Step 6: Age the caju feni
Once you have collected the liquid alcohol, it is ready to be aged. Transfer it to a glass bottle or jar and leave it to age for at least 6 months. During this time, the flavours will develop and mature, creating a smooth and complex spirit.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Once your caju feni is aged, it is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it neat or mix it into a cocktail to showcase its unique flavour profile.
In conclusion, making caju feni at home is a labour of love that requires patience and attention to detail. However, the result is a flavorful and unique spirit that is sure to impress your friends and family. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create your own batch of caju feni and experience the flavours and traditions of Goa in your own home.
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