Turkish coffee is a traditional method of coffee preparation that has been enjoyed in the Middle East and Eastern Europe for centuries. It’s known for its strong flavor, thick consistency, and the way it’s brewed slowly over low heat. Turkish coffee is not just a drink, but a cultural experience, often accompanied by fortune telling from the coffee grounds left in the cup.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold water (use the coffee cup you’ll be serving in to measure)
- 1 tablespoon finely ground Turkish coffee (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 teaspoons sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- A pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
Special Equipment:
- A cezve (a small traditional Turkish coffee pot, also known as an ibrik), or a small saucepan
Directions:
- Combine Ingredients: In your cezve or small saucepan, combine the cold water, finely ground Turkish coffee, sugar (if using), and cardamom powder (if using). Do not stir yet. The coffee grounds should float on the surface because the water is cold.
- Heat the Coffee: Place the cezve over low heat. Now, gently stir until the sugar and coffee are dissolved. From this point, do not stir again. Heat the coffee slowly, allowing it to foam up but not boil. Right before it boils (you’ll see bubbles starting to form), remove the cezve from the heat.
- Let it Settle: Allow the coffee to settle for a few seconds, then put it back on the heat. Let it foam up again to the point of almost boiling, then remove from the heat. Repeat this process one more time for a total of three times to ensure a well-developed flavor.
- Serve: Pour the coffee into a traditional Turkish coffee cup (or a small espresso cup), allowing the foam to come out first. Wait a minute before drinking to allow the grounds to settle at the bottom of the cup.
To Enjoy:
- Turkish coffee is traditionally served with a glass of water to cleanse the palate before sipping the coffee. It may also be accompanied by small sweets like Turkish delight.
- Sip slowly to enjoy the flavors and avoid the coffee grounds settled at the bottom.
Note:
- The grind size for Turkish coffee is much finer than for espresso. It should have a powder-like consistency. A specialized Turkish coffee grinder or an adjustable burr grinder set to the finest setting can achieve this.
- Adjust the amount of coffee and sugar according to your preference. The strength and sweetness can vary significantly from one person to another.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 5 (without sugar) – 20 (with sugar)
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g (without sugar) – 4-8g (with sugar)
- Protein: 0g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 1
Enjoying Turkish coffee is a unique experience, marked by its rich history, method of preparation, and the communal moments it fosters. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or new to this style of coffee, making Turkish coffee at home can add a delightful ritual to your coffee routine.
