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The Ultimate Guide to Turkish Coffee: History, Preparation, Tips, and Machines

Turkish Coffee Kit

Turkish coffee is a special and delicious variety of coffee that has become more popular all over the world as a result of its rich heritage and unique preparation process. What many people don’t realize is that Turkish coffee is actually the first coffee cooked in the world which was invented by Turks. The coffee is made using a special simmering method and served in little, traditional cups. It stands out from other varieties of coffee due to its unique flavor, aroma, foam, and specific identity with a great tradition.

Turkish Coffee Kit

Turkish Coffee Kit

History of Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee has a rich history that dates back to the Arabian Peninsula where it was first made using the fruit of the coffee plant. The unique preparation method gave the coffee its distinct flavor and aroma. When the Turks introduced it to Europe, it became popular and has been consumed using the same method for many years. Today, Turkish coffee is one of the most widely consumed types of coffee in the world, alongside espresso. It can be found on almost every menu in different restaurants. What sets Turkish coffee apart is that it is the oldest method of brewing coffee. Instead of using instant coffee, the coffee is cooked and served with its foam and grounds at the bottom of the cup, giving it a long-lasting flavor and unique foam that helps maintain its temperature. It has a softer and more consistent aroma than other types of coffee, and since its grounds settle at the bottom of the cup, there is no need for filtering. During the preparation process, sugar is added to enhance the flavor. Turkish coffee is also healthier than other types of coffee as its grounds are not consumed, which helps avoid inflation problems due to its small portion.

Turkish coffee in Brazil and North America originated is blended with high-quality coffee, roasted in a coal fire(preferably) slowly and fine grinding. After this long journey, Turkish coffee comes up in our kitchens and is ready to cook.

Turk Kahvesi

Turkish Coffee with Turkish Delight

Cooking Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee preparation is a like a ceremony and it is commonly served with Turkish delight, an authentic Turkish sweet. To make Turkish coffee, add water, coffee, and sugar to a coffee pot and place it on low heat to simmer. To achieve the perfect foam, the coffee must be cooked slowly and patiently.

To make a perfect cup of Turkish coffee, you will need to follow a precise recipe and method. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make Turkish coffee at home:

Best Recipe for Turkish Coffee

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of cold water
  • 1 tablespoon of finely ground Turkish coffee

Note: The main difference between Turkish coffee and espresso in terms of grinding is the fineness of the grounds. Turkish coffee requires a much finer grind than espresso. Turkish coffee beans are ground to a powder-like consistency, even finer than espresso grounds, while espresso grounds are slightly coarser. This is because Turkish coffee is brewed using a special brewing method that involves boiling the coffee and water together, and the fine grind allows the coffee to dissolve quickly and evenly in the water. In contrast, espresso is brewed using pressure to extract the coffee flavor and aroma, and the coarser grind allows for proper water flow and extraction without over-extracting or under-extracting the coffee. Overall, the difference in grind size between Turkish coffee and espresso is a critical factor in achieving the right taste and texture of each respective coffee.

  • Sugar (optional)
  • Cardamom (optional)

Instructions:

Add one cup of cold water to the cezve (Turkish coffee pot) and place it on medium heat.

Add two teaspoons (6 grams) of finely ground Turkish coffee to the pot.

  1. If you prefer your coffee sweet, add sugar to the pot according to your taste. The amount of sugar can range from a teaspoon to a tablespoon.
  2. For added flavor, you can add a pinch of cardamom to the pot. This is optional, but it is a common practice in Turkish coffee making.
  3. Using a small spoon, stir the coffee once, just enough to wet the coffee grounds.

  1. Let the coffee mixture come to a boil slowly, without stirring. Once you see the foam forming on the surface, remove it with a spoon and put it into the coffee cups.

Cook the remaining until the coffee starts to rise and froth over the edge of the pot.

  1. Pour the coffee into the cups, filling them about two-thirds full. Allow the coffee to rest for a minute or two to allow the grounds to settle to the bottom.
  2. Serve the coffee with a glass of cold water and a sweet treat, such as Turkish delight, baklava, or another sweet that will suit the coffee.

Best Tips for Cooking the Best Turkish Coffee

If you are a coffee lover and looking for something unique and delicious, then Turkish coffee is the perfect choice for you. However, making the perfect cup of Turkish coffee requires a certain set of skills and techniques that are different from other types of coffee. In this section, we will discuss the best tips for cooking the best Turkish coffee.

  1. Choose high-quality coffee beans

The quality of the coffee beans you use is crucial in making the perfect cup of Turkish coffee. Choose high-quality beans that are freshly roasted and have a rich aroma. You can either use a blend of coffee beans or a single-origin coffee. Keep in mind that the freshness of the coffee is essential, so try to use beans that have been roasted within the last two weeks.

  1. Use a traditional Turkish coffee pot

One of the essential tools for making Turkish coffee is a traditional Turkish coffee pot, also known as a cezve. The pot is made of copper or brass and has a long handle. The size of the pot depends on the number of cups you want to make. The traditional Turkish coffee pot allows for slow and controlled brewing, resulting in a rich and flavorful cup of coffee.

  1. Grind the coffee beans finely

Turkish coffee requires very finely ground coffee beans. You can use a manual coffee grinder or an electric grinder, but make sure that the coffee beans are ground into a fine powder. The texture of the coffee should be similar to powdered sugar. When you are done grinding, sift the coffee to remove any larger particles that can affect the texture of the coffee.

  1. Use cold water

When making Turkish coffee, it is crucial to use cold water. The ratio of coffee to water is typically two teaspoons of coffee for every cup of water. Add the cold water to the coffee pot and stir until the coffee is dissolved. Do not stir the coffee once it starts to boil.

  1. Use low heat

Turkish coffee should be brewed on low heat to prevent it from boiling too quickly. The heat should be low enough that the coffee does not boil over the pot. A good rule of thumb is to use the smallest burner on your stove and keep the heat at a low setting.

  1. Skim the foam

As the coffee starts to simmer, foam will begin to form on the surface. Skim the foam off with a spoon and distribute it evenly into each cup. The foam is an essential part of the Turkish coffee experience and adds a unique flavor and texture to the coffee.

  1. Wait for the coffee to boil

After skimming the foam, put the pot back on the stove and wait for it to boil. Be patient and let the coffee boil for a few seconds before taking it off the heat. This will help to enhance the flavor and aroma of the coffee.

  1. Let the coffee settle

Once you have poured the coffee into the cups, let it settle for a minute or two before serving. This will allow the coffee grounds to settle to the bottom of the cup, and the foam to rise to the top.

  1. Serve with water and Turkish delight

Tips for Cooking Turkish Coffee right:

  • The key to a good cup of Turkish coffee is to use the right grind size. The coffee should be ground very finely, even finer than espresso grind.
  • Do not stir the coffee once it is boiling. Stirring will disrupt the foam and affect the taste of the coffee.
  • If you do not have a cezve, you can use a small pot or saucepan instead.
  • The amount of sugar and cardamom can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.

Traditionally, Turkish coffee is served with a glass of water and a piece of Turkish delight. The water is used to cleanse the palate before drinking the coffee, and the Turkish delight is a sweet treat that complements the rich and robust flavor of the coffee.

Popular types of Turkish coffee:

  1. Plain Turkish Coffee: This is the classic Turkish coffee made with finely ground coffee beans and water, without any additional ingredients.
  2. With Sugar: Turkish coffee can be enjoyed with or without sugar, depending on your taste preferences. Here are the common ways to sweeten Turkish coffee:
    • No sugar: If you prefer your coffee without sweetness, simply omit the sugar.
    • Medium sweet: To achieve a balanced level of sweetness, add one tablespoon of sugar per cup of coffee.
    • Sweet: For a sweeter taste, add two or more tablespoons of sugar per cup of coffee.
  3. With Cardamom: Cardamom is a popular spice used in Turkish coffee, giving it a unique aroma and flavor. A pinch of cardamom is added to the coffee grounds before brewing.
  4. With Mastic: Mastic is a resin that is extracted from a tree, and is often added to Turkish coffee for a unique taste and aroma.
  5. With Salep: Salep is a type of flour made from the root of wild orchids. It is often added to Turkish coffee to give it a thicker, creamier texture.
  6. With Chocolate: Chocolate lovers can enjoy a Turkish coffee with a twist by adding a bit of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup to the coffee grounds before brewing.
  7. With Hazelnut: Hazelnut is a popular flavor in Turkish cuisine and is often added to coffee for a rich and nutty taste.

 

The cooking method of Turkish coffee cooking is a ceremony in its own right. It is serviced in its original little cups. Water, coffee and sugar are the basic ingredients of Turkish coffee as is accustomed. It is drunk in three different ways. No sugar (sade), medium sugar (orta şekerli) and with sugar (şekerli). You can select one of them up to your taste. First, put water by addition of one cup of water is into a special Turkish coffee pot for each service then two teaspoons of coffee are added to one cup of coffee. The amount of sugar is up to you. To prepare medium-sugar coffee one teaspoon of sugar is enough. After the addition of all ingredients to the coffee pot put it on the stove to simmer and start to stir with a spoon. The important point of preparation is to cook coffee slowly and patiently. When the coffee pot starts to heat up, a layer of Turkish Coffee Foam in the coffee pot occurs. After this foam starts forming and just before boiling point, take the coffee pot off the stove, and use a spoon to take this foam from the pot into the coffee cups. Share this foam to cups equally. Then put the coffee pot back on the stove, and wait till it boils and pours it into its special cups. Serving with a glass of water and a piece of delicious Turkish delight is a tradition.

It has also a different drinking section than other coffees. Drinking water before coffee diminishes other remaining tastes in the mouth. Usually, a nice talk accompanies this ceremony and after drinking coffee reverse the cup and put it to its sauce, wait until it becomes cold, and tell fortune according to shapes that occur on the surface of the cup is another part of this ceremony.

The Difference between Espresso and its Variants Coffee and Turkish Coffee

 

Espresso versus Turkish Coffee

Espresso versus Turkish Coffee

Espresso, coffee, and Turkish coffee are all popular caffeinated beverages, but they differ significantly in terms of preparation, taste, and aroma.

Espresso is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans at high pressure, resulting in a concentrated and strong shot of coffee. It is usually served in small cups and has a rich, creamy layer on top known as crema.

Coffee, on the other hand, is brewed using hot water and coarsely ground coffee beans, resulting in a milder and less concentrated flavor. It is usually served in larger cups and can be customized with milk, cream, or sweeteners to suit individual preferences.

Turkish coffee is made by simmering finely ground coffee beans with water in a special pot known as a cezve. Unlike espresso, it is not brewed under pressure and does not have crema. Instead, it has a unique foam layer on top and a rich, intense flavor that is achieved by allowing the coffee grounds to remain in the cup.

In terms of caffeine content, espresso contains the highest amount per volume, followed by coffee and then Turkish coffee. However, the actual amount of caffeine can vary depending on factors such as the type of beans used, the brewing method, and the serving size.

Overall, the difference between these beverages lies in their preparation methods and resulting taste and aroma. Whether you prefer the strong, concentrated flavor of espresso, the milder taste of coffee, or the unique characteristics of Turkish coffee, each beverage offers its own distinct experience.

Turkish Coffee Culture

Turkish coffee has played an important role in Turkish culture for centuries. The traditional serving ritual and utensils used for Turkish coffee are an important part of this culture.

When serving Turkish coffee, the host often brings out an ornate tray with small, handle-less cups called fincans and a matching serving pot called an cezve. The coffee is often served with a glass of water and a small sweet treat, such as Turkish delight or baklava.

Turkish coffee is also an important part of Turkish hospitality. When a guest arrives, the host will often offer them Turkish coffee as a sign of welcome and respect.

  • Turkish Coffee Houses:

Turkish coffee houses, also known as “kahvehane,” are traditional social gathering places where people come to drink coffee, play games, and chat with friends. These places are often frequented by men and are known for their lively atmosphere and sense of community.

  • Wedding Offers Rituals:

In Turkish culture, the act of offering coffee to a potential spouse or their family is an important part of the marriage process. This custom is known as “kiz isteme,” which translates to “asking for the girl’s hand.” The prospective groom and his family visit the home of the bride and her family to formally ask for her hand in marriage. During this meeting, Turkish coffee is often served as a symbol of hospitality and respect. The bride’s family will typically prepare the coffee, and the groom’s family will drink it while discussing the proposal. If the proposal is accepted, the two families will continue to drink coffee and discuss the details of the wedding.

  • Fortune Telling with Turkish Coffee:

Fortune telling with Turkish coffee is an ancient practice that is still common in Turkey today. Once you have finished your coffee, the remaining coffee grounds are swirled around the inside of the cup and turned upside down on the saucer to cool. After a few minutes, the fortune teller (often the person who made the coffee) will interpret the patterns and symbols left by the coffee grounds. This tradition is often done at gatherings with friends or family and can be a fun and insightful experience.

Turkish Coffee Around the World

Turkish coffee has spread far beyond Turkey’s borders and has become a popular beverage around the world. It has found its way into the cultural practices of various countries and has taken on different forms, depending on the local culture and traditions.

In the Middle East, for example, Turkish coffee is an integral part of socializing and hospitality. In countries such as Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria, it is customary to serve Turkish coffee with a glass of water to cleanse the palate and dates or sweets to complement the coffee’s sweetness. The preparation of the coffee also differs slightly, with some adding a pinch of cardamom or saffron for an added touch of flavor.

In Greece and Cyprus, Turkish coffee is known as “Greek coffee,” and it is enjoyed in much the same way as in Turkey. It is typically served in small cups, accompanied by a glass of cold water, and a piece of Turkish delight. The coffee is also sometimes brewed with a small amount of ground cinnamon, creating a unique and delicious flavor.

In the Balkans, Turkish coffee is also a popular beverage, known as “Bosnian coffee,” “Serbian coffee,” or “Montenegrin coffee,” depending on the region. It is typically served in small cups and enjoyed with a slice of Turkish delight or a piece of baklava. It is also common to sprinkle a small amount of cocoa powder on top of the foam, adding an extra layer of flavor to the coffee.

In the Arab world, Turkish coffee is enjoyed with dates and other sweets, and it is customary to serve it in small cups. The preparation method is similar to that of Turkey, with some adding a pinch of cardamom or saffron for added flavor.

In some parts of Europe, Turkish coffee is also gaining popularity, especially among coffee aficionados who appreciate the coffee’s rich and complex flavors. In some coffee shops, Turkish coffee is prepared in traditional copper pots and served in small cups, complete with a serving of Turkish delight.

Turkish Coffee Machines

Turkish coffee has been traditionally brewed on a stove using a cezve, a small copper or brass pot. However, in recent years, the popularity of Turkish coffee has led to the development of Turkish coffee machines that automate the brewing process, making it easier and faster to make this traditional drink. Here are some of the most popular Turkish coffee machines on the market:

Arzum Okka Turkish Coffee Maker

Arzum Okka is one of the most well-known Turkish coffee machines in the world. It is an electric, automatic coffee machine that can brew up to four cups of Turkish coffee at once. It has a special brewing technology that uses a slow cooking process to extract the maximum flavor and aroma from the coffee grounds. The Arzum Okka also has a self-cleaning function, making it very easy to clean after use. There is also Arzum Okka Minio edition, which is a smaller Turkish coffee machine.

Telve Automatic Turkish Coffee Maker

The Arçelik Telve Automatic Turkish Coffee Maker is a compact and portable machine that can brew one or two cups of coffee at once. It is very easy to use, as it has only one button, and it is also very fast, as it can brew a cup of coffee in just two minutes. The Telve Automatic Turkish Coffee Maker also has a stainless steel pot and a non-stick coating for easy cleaning.

Beko BKK Series Turkish Coffee Maker

The Beko BKK series is another popular Turkish coffee machine that can brew up to three cups of coffee at once. It has a modern design and features an automatic shut-off function and an adjustable cooking time for a more personalized cup of coffee. The Beko BKK 2113M also has a non-stick coating that prevents the coffee grounds from sticking to the pot and makes cleaning easier.

Turkish Coffee World Tchibo Cafissimo Turkish Coffee Machine

The Tchibo Cafissimo Turkish Coffee Machine is a German-made machine that can brew up to four cups of Turkish coffee at once. It features a pressure pump system that ensures a perfect extraction of the coffee flavor and aroma, and it has a programmable function that allows you to adjust the brewing time and strength of your coffee. The Tchibo Cafissimo Turkish Coffee Machine also has a removable and dishwasher-safe pot for easy cleaning.

When it comes to comparing these Turkish coffee machines, it is important to note that each machine has its unique features and advantages. The Arzum Okka, for example, is known for its slow cooking technology and self-cleaning function, while the Beko BKK 2113M has an adjustable cooking time and non-stick coating. The Telve Automatic Turkish Coffee Maker is compact and portable, while the Turkish Coffee World Tchibo Cafissimo has a pressure pump system that ensures a perfect extraction of the coffee flavor and aroma.

Instant Turkish Coffee Kits

Instant Turkish Coffee Kits are becoming more and more popular due to their convenience and ease of use. They are a great option for those who want to enjoy the rich and unique taste of Turkish coffee without having to go through the traditional preparation process. Some popular brands of instant Turkish coffee kits include Nescafe, Tchibo, and Mehmet Efendi.

How to Use Instant Turkish Coffee Kits:

Using an instant Turkish coffee kit is very easy. Simply empty the contents of the package into a cup, add hot water, and stir. Some kits may require the addition of sugar or other flavorings.

  1. Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi: This is a well-known Turkish coffee brand that also offers an instant coffee kit. Their instant coffee mix is made with 100% Arabica beans and comes in a tin can.
  2. Tchibo Turkish Coffee: Tchibo is a German coffee company that offers a range of instant Turkish coffee mixes. They come in various flavors, including traditional, cardamom, and mocha.
  3. Nescafe Turkish Coffee: This brand offers a ready-to-brew Turkish coffee mix that can be made instantly by simply adding hot water. It comes in a variety of flavors, including plain, cardamom, and hazelnut.
  4. Elite Turkish Coffee: Elite is another Turkish coffee brand that offers an instant coffee kit. Their instant coffee mix comes in different flavors, including original, cardamom, and mocha.
  5. 7hills Turkish Coffee: 7hills is a Turkish coffee company that offers an instant coffee kit made with 100% Arabica beans. Their instant coffee mix comes in plain and cardamom flavors.

Things to Consider when Buying Instant Turkish Coffee Kits: When buying instant Turkish coffee kits, it’s important to consider factors such as the brand, flavor, and packaging size. Some brands may offer organic or sugar-free options, while others may come in single-serve or bulk packaging.

Mini-Conclusion: Instant Turkish coffee kits are a convenient and delicious way to enjoy traditional Turkish coffee without the need for any special equipment or preparation time. With a wide range of brands and flavors available, there is an instant Turkish coffee kit to suit every taste preference and dietary requirement.

Conclusion

In the end, the best Turkish coffee machine for you will depend on your preferences and needs. Whether you prefer a fast and easy brewing process or a more traditional slow cooking method, there is a Turkish coffee machine out there that will suit your tastes.

Overall, Turkish coffee has made its way around the world, and its popularity shows no sign of slowing down. Its rich history, unique preparation method, and delicious flavor have made it a beloved beverage among coffee lovers worldwide.

Grinding to drinking Turkish coffee is a very special drink and it affects Turkish society deeply. It has taken place in many traditional events such as taking a bride ceremony, and celebration of feasts since the Ottoman Empire. You should definitely try, and buy some with its special coffee pot and cups when you visit Turkey.

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4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide to Turkish Coffee: History, Preparation, Tips, and Machines”

  1. The coffee, its taste and preparation and the mug is as good as other food and fruits in Turkey.
    Thanks god, there is a Turkey!

  2. I’ve always thought that we prepare the same coffee (in Bosnia), but we are not. I’ll try “the original” if I come to Turkey, insallah

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