How to Prepare Traditional Turkish Coffee

Learn how to prepare traditional Turkish coffee using a small brass pot called a cezve or ibrik. This step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know, from selecting the right beans and equipment to serving and drinking the finished product.

Preparation of traditional Turkish coffee begins with selecting the right beans. It is best to use a high-quality, finely ground roast with a strong, bold flavor. You will also need a small brass pot called a cezve or ibrik, as well as a heat source and water.

To prepare Turkish coffee, start by adding cold water to the cezve or ibrik, along with sugar to taste. If you prefer your coffee unsweetened, you can omit the sugar. Next, add a heaping spoonful of finely ground coffee beans to the pot for each cup of coffee you are preparing.

Place the cezve or ibrik on the heat source and bring the water to a boil. As the water begins to boil, the coffee grounds will settle to the bottom of the pot. When the coffee is almost ready, a foam will begin to form on the surface.

As soon as the foam appears, remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool for a few moments. This will help to settle the grounds to the bottom of the pot. Then, carefully pour the brewed coffee into small, handleless cups called “fincan,” being sure to divide the foam evenly among the cups.

Serve the Turkish coffee hot, with a glass of water on the side. The water can be used to rinse the mouth and palate between sips of coffee, as the grounds will settle to the bottom of the cup.

To drink Turkish coffee, take small sips and savor the rich, full-bodied flavor. The coffee grounds should be left in the cup, and it is common to use a spoon to scoop them out when you reach the bottom of the cup. Some people believe that the grounds can be used to read fortunes or predict the future, so you may wish to try your hand at this traditional practice as well.

With a little practice and the right equipment, you can easily prepare traditional Turkish coffee at home and enjoy this delicious and culturally significant beverage.