Planning A Türkiye Trip? Here's How To Drink Turkish Coffee Like A Local

Turkish coffee is one of the most celebrated beverages worldwide. More than merely a drink, it embodies cultural heritage, warmth, and an artistic tradition treasured through the ages. This unique coffee is not just a swift pick-me-up but is designed to be truly experienced and savoured. Rituals surrounding its consumption, including the intriguing practice of fortune-telling, enhance its cultural significance. In fact, in 2013, the intricate culture and traditions associated with Turkish coffee were honoured by being listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Its essence is deeply embedded within Turkish identity. If you ever find yourself in Türkiye, indulging in this remarkable beverage is a must. Delve into the aromatic universe of Turkish coffee, and see how coffee is brewed, served, and experienced in Turkish culture.The HistoryHere's an abridged look at the history of Turkish coffee. The rich saga of Turkish coffee traces its roots back to the 1500s during the illustrious Ottoman Empire. The beverage quickly became popular, establishing itself as a vital component of Turkish culture. By the close of the century, the inaugural coffeehouses, termed kiraathane, emerged as bustling centres of social and intellectual life. Poets, writers, artists, scholars, and politicians flocked to these vibrant spaces, engaging in discussions on a plethora of topics over steaming cups of coffee. Indeed, during the 17th century, these coffeehouses were famously described as “Istanbul’s temples without gods.” Many captivating tales surround Turkish coffee culture. For instance, one sultan expressed his discontent with Turkish coffee, going so far as to ban the cherished drink entirely. He believed that coffeehouses were venues for the dissemination of dangerous ideas and also considered the drink to have a psychedelic effect.It's In The MethodTurkish coffee is thicker and more aromatic than other coffees. The art of preparing Turkish coffee has transformed into a meticulous craft, celebrated for its bold flavour. It's important to note that "Turkish coffee" refers not to coffee produced in Türkiye but to a unique brewing method characterized by its specific techniques. This includes medium roasting and a finer grind, allowing the coffee to be served with the grounds for a richer experience. Brewed in a traditional pot known as a cezve, Turkish coffee is boiled—with sugar often added—until it achieves a frothy perfection, typically going through this process multiple times. The journey of coffee in the Ottoman Empire involved roasting, grinding, and cooking the beans, leading to a truly special taste. We can savour this exquisite coffee today thanks to the Turks, who pioneered this brewing method in the 16th century. Remarkably, the timeless cezve is still cherished and utilised in Türkiye and across many Balkan and Middle Eastern countries, preserving a cultural tradition that enhances every cup. Turkish coffee is traditionally paired with sweets such as lokum, also known as Turkish Delight.Not Just A Drink But A CultureIn Türkiye, coffee is not just a drink but a cherished cultural tradition permeating daily life. It is carefully brewed and elegantly presented in almost every social gathering, extending beyond the home. Historically, Turkish coffee has served as a cornerstone of social interaction in neighbourhood coffee houses, fostering community bonds. The importance of coffee is reflected in the Turkish term "kahvaltı," which literally means "the meal before coffee." When visiting afriends and family in Türkiye, being offered Turkish coffee is a warm gesture that signifies hospitality and connection. This beloved beverage is also central to significant celebrations such as weddings, engagements, and births, making it a fixture in important moments of life. Adding to its allure, Turkish coffee culture also includes the practice of fortune-telling using coffee grounds. According to a well-known Turkish proverb, a cup of coffee can forge a friendship that lasts for 40 years. Different Kinds Of CoffeeWhen visiting Istanbul, you must indulge in the diverse world of Turkish coffee. Dibek Turkish coffee is a unique blend that is stone-ground and skillfully beaten with a stone pestle in a traditional mortar. This distinctive grinding method transforms the flavour, creating a lighter and more aromatic brew that will impress. Mirra coffee is more potent and slightly bitter—aptly named after the Arabic word “bitter.” This intense flavour results from roasting the beans twice and a coarser grind than typical Turkish coffee. Explore the various ways of preparing Turkish coffee in Istanbul—whether brewed on sand, coals, or ashes, each method offers a unique experience. You can add flavours like chocolate, cardamom, vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, and mastic. This unique ingredient infuses the coffee with a distinctive flavour that perfectly complements the brew, making your coffee experience in Istanbul truly unforgettable.