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05/16/2024 07:52:41 am

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Nepalese Laws Against Alcoholic Beverages Exempt Traditional Drink

Raksi Distillery in Nepal

(Photo : Wikipedia)

Nepalese wives prepare 'raksi,' a traditional distilled alcoholic beverage offered to Buddhist and Hindu gods during festivities, despite laws in the country against the preparation and consumption of alcoholic drinks.

Native to the Newar community in the Kathmandu valley, the alcoholic drink also known as 'aila' and is composed of over 50 percent alcohol.

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However, since the drink is a requirement during traditions, authorities excuse the hundreds of housewives who brew the beverage.

CNN dubbed the alcoholic beverage as one of the top 50 most delicious drinks around the world, together with America's chocolate milkshake, Mexico's tequila, and England's eggnog.

In a description of the Nepalese drink, which ranked number 41, CNN noted the drink's smoothness and the surprising "velvety sensation" that accompanies its strong smell.

Traditionally, 'raksi' is poured into a clay bowl or a bhatti glass from a great height via a brass-made pitcher with a long snout and a small opening.

According to Yahoo News, raksi quality is measure by the amount of bubbles in the drink after being poured.

Raksi is usually served as a religious offering in Tibet and Nepal. Locals offer it as a thanks giving to the Buddhist and Hindu gods.

Mostly, Nepal's daughters-in-law are the ones assigned to make the strong distilled drink that is similar to gin or vodka and has a flavor much like that of Japanese sake.

The traditional home-brewed alcoholic beverage requires over a month of preparation from the removal of husks, sorting, cleansing, and cooking of 'kodo millet,' most commonly known as rice.

After being cooked, rice is then transferred to huge clay containers to ferment for several weeks and then cooked again in the same big black pots that were initially used.

During the second cooking, the drink is distilled and becomes clear.

Common Nepalese can access the lustrous drink since it is made available for the Newar community restaurants.

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