Yeni Raki

Yeni raki is the Turkish national drink, affectionately called ‘lion’s milk’ there. Somewhat similar to arak, it’s strongly aromatized with aniseed. It may be enjoyed in a cocktail, but it’s served more commonly with meze: Turkish hors d’oeuvres and appetizers such as sliced tomatoes and cucumbers with garlic sauce; cold cuts; fried vegetables; cold yogourt soup; and shrimp and mussels in a vinaigrette.