Turkish coffee is one of the oldest and most traditional brewing methods in the world. Known for its rich flavor, thick texture, and signature foam, Turkish coffee is as much about ritual as it is about taste. If you’re curious to learn how to brew this iconic drink at home, this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to make Turkish coffee authentically, even if you’re a complete beginner.
Table of Contents
What Is Turkish Coffee?
Turkish coffee is a method of brewing finely ground coffee in a small pot called a cezve (also known as an ibrik). It’s typically brewed slowly over low heat to create a strong, concentrated coffee with a thick foam layer on top.
Unlike other coffee methods, Turkish coffee is unfiltered. The coffee grounds settle at the bottom of the cup, creating a unique drinking experience.
What You’ll Need
Making Turkish coffee requires only a few tools and ingredients, but quality matters:
- Finely ground coffee (Turkish grind, extremely fine, like powder)
- Fresh cold water
- Sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- Cezve (ibrik) — traditional long-handled Turkish coffee pot
- Small coffee cup — traditionally called fincan
- Small spoon for stirring
Choosing the Right Coffee
Authentic Turkish coffee uses extremely finely ground beans, almost like flour. You can either:
- Purchase pre-ground Turkish coffee from brands like Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi or Al Ameed
- Grind your own using a Turkish coffee grinder or a quality burr grinder set to its finest setting
Medium to dark roast beans work best for Turkish coffee, but you can adjust to your taste.
Turkish Coffee Sweetness Levels
Sweetness is added during brewing, not afterward. Here are the traditional sweetness levels:
- Sade: No sugar
- Az şekerli: Lightly sweet (½ tsp sugar)
- Orta: Medium sweet (1 tsp sugar)
- Şekerli: Sweet (1½ to 2 tsp sugar)
Decide before brewing, as stirring after serving will disturb the foam.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Turkish Coffee
Step 1: Measure Your Ingredients
Use your coffee cup to measure the water. For each serving:
- Add 1 cup of cold water to the cezve.
- Add 1 to 2 heaping teaspoons of coffee per serving.
- Add sugar according to your preferred sweetness.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Before heating, stir the coffee, water, and sugar well until fully combined. The mixture should look smooth and uniform.
Step 3: Heat Slowly
Place the cezve over low heat. Patience is key here. Slowly heat the mixture without stirring again.
- As the coffee heats, a foam layer will start forming on the surface.
- Watch closely; you don’t want it to boil rapidly.
- When the foam begins to rise but before it spills over, remove the cezve from the heat.
Step 4: Skim the Foam
Spoon some of the foam into each coffee cup. This foam is a prized part of Turkish coffee.
Step 5: Return to Heat
Place the cezve back on the stove and allow it to foam up again, but don’t let it boil fully. Remove from heat before it overflows.
Step 6: Pour and Serve
Slowly pour the coffee into each cup, distributing the foam evenly. Let the coffee sit for a minute or two to allow the grounds to settle at the bottom.
Tips for Perfect Turkish Coffee
- Always use cold, fresh water for best results.
- Heat slowly to maximize foam and avoid burning the coffee.
- Never stir after heating begins to maintain the foam layer.
- Serve with a glass of cold water to cleanse the palate before drinking.
- Many people enjoy Turkish coffee with a small sweet treat, such as Turkish delight or dates.
How to Drink Turkish Coffee Properly
Turkish coffee isn’t meant to be rushed. Sip slowly, savoring the rich flavors and thick body. Stop drinking when you reach the grounds at the bottom of the cup.
Traditionally, Turkish coffee is also linked to fortune-telling. Some people invert their cup after drinking and interpret the shapes left by the grounds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using water that’s too hot at the start, which prevents proper foam formation.
- Stirring after the coffee starts heating, which ruins the foam.
- Using coarse ground coffee, which won’t yield the authentic texture.
- Heating too quickly, leading to bitter, burnt flavors.
Why You Should Try Making Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee offers a unique sensory experience that no other brewing method can replicate. Its strong, velvety flavor, rich aroma, and traditional presentation make it more than just a beverage—it’s a cultural ritual.
Perfect for:
- Slow weekend mornings
- After-meal conversations
- Entertaining guests with a unique coffee experience
Final Thoughts
Learning how to make Turkish coffee may take a bit of practice, but once you master the process, it becomes a deeply rewarding ritual. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy one of the world’s oldest coffee traditions right at home.
Take your time, savor every sip, and embrace the rich heritage behind this timeless brew.
