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Rakomelo

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

  • 500 ml (2 cups) raki (tsikoudia) or grappa
  • 100 g (1/3 cup) honey
  • 1 (1) cinnamon stick
  • 4 (4) whole cloves
  • 1 (1) strip orange peel

Method

  1. Combine raki, honey, cinnamon stick, cloves and orange peel in a small saucepan.
  2. Warm gently over low heat, stirring to dissolve the honey; do not boil.
  3. Heat for 5–8 minutes to infuse the spices, keeping the alcohol from evaporating too much.
  4. Strain into small heatproof cups.
  5. Serve warm as an after-dinner drink or winter warmer.

Introduction: A warming winter drink from Crete, rakomelo combines the island's fiery grape-pomace spirit, raki (tsikoudia), with honey and warming spices, traditionally served in the colder months to guests.

Cultural Background: A warming winter drink from Crete, rakomelo combines the island's fiery grape-pomace spirit, raki (tsikoudia), with honey and warming spices, traditionally served in the colder months to guests.

Tips: Keep the heat low — boiling burns off too much alcohol and flavor. Serve in small portions, as it is quite strong.

Variations: Some versions add a star anise or a slice of fresh ginger for extra warmth.

Storage: Best made fresh; leftover unheated mixture can be stored in a sealed bottle for a few weeks.

Reheating: Gently rewarm over low heat before serving; do not boil.

Nutrition: Approx. 140 kcal, 0 g protein, 0 g fat, 9 g carbohydrate per serving.

FAQs:

Q: What is raki?

A: A strong, clear spirit distilled from grape pomace, especially popular in Crete, also known as tsikoudia.

Q: Is rakomelo served cold?

A: No, it is traditionally served warm, especially in winter.

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