Turkish coffee is one of the oldest and most traditional coffee brewing methods in the world. Known for its rich, strong flavor and velvety texture, Turkish coffee is brewed slowly over low heat and served unfiltered, allowing the fine coffee grounds to settle at the bottom of the cup.
If you love bold and aromatic coffee, learning to make authentic Turkish coffee at home will give you a smooth, intense, and culturally rich coffee experience. In this guide, we’ll cover the history of Turkish coffee, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips for perfecting this traditional drink.
What is Turkish Coffee?
Turkish coffee is a finely ground coffee brewed in a small pot called a cezve (ibrik) over low heat, traditionally using sand or an open flame. Unlike most brewing methods, Turkish coffee is unfiltered, meaning the grounds remain in the cup. This creates a thick, strong, and slightly foamy coffee that is meant to be sipped slowly.
Turkish coffee is also known for its cultural significance, often served during social gatherings, special occasions, and even fortune-telling, where the coffee grounds left in the cup are used to predict the future.
What You Need to Make Turkish Coffee
To make a traditional Turkish coffee, you’ll need:
- Finely ground Turkish coffee (grind should be as fine as powdered sugar)
- Cold, filtered water (½ cup per serving)
- A cezve (ibrik) (small copper or brass coffee pot)
- Sugar (optional, according to taste)
- Ground cardamom (optional, for added flavor)
- A small demitasse cup (Turkish coffee cup)
For the best results, use 100% Arabica coffee beans, as they provide a smooth, balanced flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Turkish Coffee
Step 1: Measure the Ingredients
Use one heaping teaspoon of finely ground coffee per ½ cup of cold water. If you prefer a sweeter coffee, add sugar before brewing so it dissolves properly. Turkish coffee can be made without sugar (sade), mildly sweet (az şekerli), medium sweet (orta), or very sweet (şekerli).
Step 2: Mix Coffee, Water, and Sugar in the Cezve
Pour cold water into the cezve, then add the coffee and sugar. Stir gently until everything is well mixed. Do not stir again after this point, as this helps form the characteristic foam on top.
Step 3: Brew Slowly Over Low Heat
Place the cezve over low heat and let it brew slowly. Do not stir. As the coffee heats up, foam will start to form on the surface. This is an essential part of Turkish coffee and should not be disturbed.
Step 4: Remove and Serve the Foam
Just before the coffee begins to boil, remove the cezve from the heat and gently scoop some of the foam into the serving cup.
Step 5: Return to Heat and Pour
Return the cezve to the heat for a few more seconds until the coffee rises again. Then, pour the coffee slowly into the cup, allowing the foam to remain on top.
Step 6: Let the Grounds Settle and Enjoy
Wait for 30–60 seconds to let the coffee grounds settle at the bottom of the cup. Sip slowly and enjoy!
Best Coffee Beans for Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee is best made with Arabica beans that have been finely ground to a powder-like consistency. Some excellent choices include:
- Ethiopian coffee – Bright, fruity, and complex flavors
- Yemeni coffee – Spiced, rich, and aromatic
- Brazilian coffee – Smooth, nutty, and slightly chocolatey
- Colombian coffee – Balanced, mild acidity, and sweet notes
How to Serve Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee is traditionally served in a small, elegant cup (fincan), accompanied by a glass of water to cleanse the palate before drinking. It is often enjoyed with a piece of Turkish delight, chocolate, or dried fruit.
Pro Tips for the Best Turkish Coffee
For the best foam, always brew on low heat and avoid stirring after mixing the coffee. The slower the brew, the richer the foam and flavor. Use cold, filtered water, as this helps with even extraction. When pouring, try to preserve as much foam as possible for an authentic Turkish coffee experience.
The Art of Turkish Coffee Fortune Telling
In Turkish culture, coffee is often used for fortune-telling (tasseography). After finishing the coffee, the cup is flipped upside down on the saucer and left to cool. The coffee grounds form patterns inside the cup, which are then “read” to predict the drinker’s future.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Homemade Turkish Coffee!
Turkish coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural tradition that brings people together. With its bold flavor, thick texture, and rich history, it offers a unique and rewarding coffee experience. Whether you enjoy it plain, sweet, or spiced with cardamom, learning to make Turkish coffee at home allows you to connect with an ancient tradition while savoring a perfect cup.
Do you prefer your Turkish coffee plain or sweetened? Let me know in the comments! ☕😊