Ouzo vs. Arak — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 26, 2024
Ouzo is a Greek anise-flavored spirit, traditionally sipped with water to turn milky white; Arak, similar in flavor, hails from the Eastern Mediterranean and is often consumed with mezze.
Difference Between Ouzo and Arak
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Ouzo, a staple in Greek culture, is predominantly made from grape must and flavored primarily with anise. Whereas Arak, enjoyed in countries like Lebanon and Syria, shares the anise flavor but is made from grapes or dates.
Both spirits turn a milky white when water is added, a reaction to their essential oil of anise. Ouzo tends to have a slightly sweeter profile due to added sugars, on the other hand, Arak maintains a more potent flavor because it typically lacks these additives.
Traditionally, Ouzo is served with small plates called mezedes in Greece, enhancing its sweet notes. Arak, meanwhile, is a common accompaniment to mezze, the diverse array of appetizers that characterize Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. This pairing tradition reflects each spirit's role in social and dining customs.
In terms of alcohol content, Ouzo usually ranges between 37.5% and 50%, whereas Arak can be stronger, sometimes exceeding 50% alcohol by volume, emphasizing its robust character.
Comparison Chart
Origin
Greece
Eastern Mediterranean (e.g., Lebanon)
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Base Ingredient
Grape must
Grapes or dates
Flavoring
Anise
Anise
Alcohol Content
37.5% to 50%
Often above 50%
Traditional Pairing
Mezedes (small Greek dishes)
Mezze (varied appetizers)
Compare with Definitions
Ouzo
Distilled from grape must remnant from wine production.
The grape must gives Ouzo its distinctive base.
Arak
Typically made from distilled grapes or dates.
The grape-based Arak is particularly smooth.
Ouzo
A traditional Greek spirit flavored with anise.
Ouzo turns milky white when mixed with water.
Arak
Often served alongside mezze.
Arak pairs well with the flavors of mezze dishes.
Ouzo
Usually served with a splash of cold water.
Adding water to Ouzo releases its aromatic flavors.
Arak
Consumed with water and ice, turning milky white upon dilution.
Arak's transformation when water is added is mesmerizing.
Ouzo
Often paired with small dishes known as mezedes.
Ouzo complements the salty flavors of Greek mezedes.
Arak
A potent anise-flavored spirit from the Eastern Mediterranean.
Arak is a favorite at Lebanese feasts.
Ouzo
Consumed as an aperitif in Greece.
Ouzo is often enjoyed before meals.
Arak
Known for its high alcohol content.
Arak can be more intoxicating than other spirits due to its strength.
Ouzo
Ouzo (Greek: ούζο, IPA: [ˈuzo]) is a dry anise-flavoured aperitif that is widely consumed in Greece and Cyprus. It is made from rectified spirits that have undergone a process of distillation and flavoring.
Arak
Any of various alcoholic liquors of the Middle East, distilled from grapes, raisins, or dates and flavored with anise.
Ouzo
A Greek aniseed-flavoured spirit.
Arak
See arrack.
Ouzo
A colorless, unsweetened Greek liqueur flavored with anise.
Arak
A clear, unsweetened aniseed-flavoured alcoholic drink, produced and consumed primarily in the Middle East.
Ouzo
(uncountable) An anise-flavoured aperitif, originating in Greece.
Arak
An alcoholic drink distilled from coconut palm flowers in South Asia
Ouzo
(countable) A serving of this drink.
Arak
A toothbrush tree (Salvadora persica).
Ouzo
Anise-flavored Greek liquor
Arak
Same as Arrack.
Arak
Any of various strong liquors distilled from the fermented sap of toddy palms or from fermented molasses
Common Curiosities
What is the main flavor of Ouzo?
Anise.
From what is Arak distilled?
Grapes or dates.
What type of dishes is Ouzo typically paired with?
Greek mezedes.
Why does Ouzo turn milky when water is added?
Due to the anise oil reacting with water.
Can you drink Ouzo straight?
It is usually diluted with water.
What's the best way to enjoy Ouzo?
Chilled with a splash of water.
Are there different varieties of Ouzo?
Yes, varying by sweetness and anise intensity.
Is Arak stronger than Ouzo?
Yes, usually it has a higher alcohol content.
What cultural significance does Arak have?
It's a traditional spirit in celebrations and gatherings.
How is Arak traditionally consumed?
With water and ice.
Does Arak have any additives?
It typically does not contain added sugars.
What occasions are Arak served at?
Social gatherings and family meals.
How should Ouzo be stored?
In a cool, dark place.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
