How to make Turkish Coffee at Home: Tools and Equipment Needed

Imagine the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through your home as you prepare an authentic cup of Turkish coffee using the oldest coffee brewer in the world. The process of making Turkish coffee is both an art and a science and with the right tools and equipment, you can master it in your own kitchen.

The ibrik is a brewing method that has a long and rich history. While it has been around for a long time, its recent rise in the specialty coffee world has brought it newfound popularity. In this guide, we will delve into the essential tools, equipment, and methods for making the perfect cup of Turkish coffee, as well as some alternative approaches for those who want to experiment.

History of Turkish Coffee

The history of Turkish coffee dates back several centuries. Coffee was introduced to the Ottoman Empire, which included present-day Turkey, during the 16th century. According to popular legend, the governor of Yemen, Özdemir Pasha, brought coffee beans and the brewing method to Istanbul in 1543

Coffee quickly gained popularity in the Ottoman Empire, becoming an integral part of the social and cultural fabric. Coffee houses, known as "kahvehane," became important meeting places for intellectuals, artists, and politicians. These establishments played a crucial role in the exchange of ideas and the development of Ottoman culture

Turkish coffee became an essential part of Turkish traditions and ceremonies. It is often served as a symbol of hospitality to guests, and fortune telling through coffee grounds, known as "tasseography" or "tasseomancy," is also a popular practice in Turkish culture.

The tradition of Turkish coffee has spread beyond Turkey and has influenced coffee cultures in various parts of the world. It has become a recognized symbol of Turkish culture and is cherished for its rich history and unique brewing method.

Essential Equipment to Make Turkish Coffee

The foundation of a great Turkish coffee experience lies in having the proper equipment. Turkish coffee requires the use of a grinder, a cezve or ibrik, and a long-handled metal spoon. These tools play a crucial role in achieving the unique taste and texture that Turkish coffee is known for.

Let's take a closer look at each of these essential pieces of equipment.

Turkish Coffee Grinder

A Turkish coffee grinder is indispensable for obtaining the right consistency of coffee grounds used for your coffee. Unlike regular coffee grinders, Turkish coffee grinders are specifically designed to produce an extremely fine grind, which is crucial for the brewing process.

The Eureka Mignon Specialita Grinder is a highly recommended choice for Turkish coffee enthusiasts. While Turkish coffee requires an extremely fine grind, the Specialita's stepless grind adjustment allows for precise control, ensuring you can achieve the perfect consistency needed for this brewing method. Its 55mm flat burrs deliver consistent and uniform grinding, resulting in finely ground coffee that is essential for a rich and flavorful Turkish coffee experience.

An alternative could be the  Comandante manual coffee grinder, a high-performance manual coffee grinder with an advanced burr set design that can grind multiple coffee settings such as Turkish, espresso, drip and filter, French Press, and Cold Brew. It can grind up to 40 grams of coffee and is easy to clean and travel with.

With the right grinder, you'll be one step closer to enjoying the perfect cup of Turkish coffee.

Cezve or Ibrik

The cezve or ibrik is a small pot, traditionally made of copper or brass, used for preparing Turkish coffee. Its unique design allows the coffee to blend effectively with the water and helps preserve the optimal amount of coffee foam.

While it is customary to use a cezve or ibrik, you may also opt for a small saucepan as an alternative. However, it is worth noting that using a saucepan may not yield the same amount of foam as a cezve or ibrik.

Long-Handled Metal Spoon

A long-handled metal spoon is essential for stirring the coffee mixture in the pot. The length of the spoon allows you to stir without spilling, ensuring that your coffee is evenly mixed.

This simple yet crucial tool will help you achieve that perfect blend of flavors in your Turkish coffee.

Additional Tools for an Authentic Experience

To further enhance your Turkish coffee experience, you may wish to consider adding some traditional items to your collection. These can include Turkish coffee cups (fincan), a serving tray, and accompaniments such as Turkish delight and a glass of water.

Traditional Turkish Coffee Brewing Techniques: Tips and Tricks

Now that you have all the necessary tools, it's time to explore the art of brewing the perfect cup of Turkish coffee. With the right techniques, you can create a rich and flavorful coffee that reflects the essence of Turkish culture.

In this section, we will provide you with the basic recipe and some tips and tricks for choosing the right beans, adjusting the sugar preferences, and creating the signature foam.

Choosing the Right Beans for Turkish Coffee

The choice of coffee beans plays a significant role in the taste and aroma of your Turkish coffee. Medium to dark roast Arabica beans are recommended for their smooth and subtle flavor profile, which is ideal for Turkish coffee. It is also called Turkish coffee beans in the stores. 

However, if you prefer a stronger taste, you can experiment with Robusta beans, which yield a more highly caffeinated beverage. Remember, it's essential to grind the beans to a very fine consistency, as this is crucial for the brewing process.

Adjusting Sugar Preferences

The sweetness of Turkish coffee can be easily adjusted to suit your taste buds. Traditional options include şekerli (extra sweet) and az şekerli (less sweet). You can start by preparing the coffee without sugar, distributing the first pour among the cups, and then adding the desired sugar amount to the second pour.

If you'd like to experiment with a different option, you can also substitute water with milk, but be cautious not to scald the milk, as this can affect the flavor of the coffee.

How to Create Foam in Turkish Coffee

The signature foam on top of Turkish coffee is an essential element of the experience. To create this foam, gently bring the coffee mixture to a boil over medium heat for approximately 3-4 minutes. The coffee will gradually become warmer. A dark foam will form across the top.

It is crucial to serve Turkish coffee with this foam, so use a teaspoon to transfer some of the foam into each coffee cup before returning the coffee pot to the stovetop.

How to Make Turkish Coffee: Turkish Coffee Recipe 

Ingredients:

• Freshly roasted Turkish coffee beans (medium - dark roast)
• Cold water
• Sugar (optional)
• Cardamom pods (optional)

Instructions:

1. Measure out one demitasse cup (about 70-80ml) of cold water per serving and pour it into a small cezve (Turkish coffee pot).
2. If desired, add sugar to taste. A common ratio is 1 teaspoon of sugar per demitasse cup, but you can adjust it according to your preference.
3. Optional: If you enjoy the aromatic flavor of cardamom, you can add a pinch of crushed cardamom pods to the cezve.
4. Add two heaping teaspoons of finely ground Turkish coffee to the cezve per demitasse cup.
5. Stir gently to combine the coffee, water, sugar, and cardamom (if using) until everything is well mixed.
6. Place the cezve on low heat. Be sure to use a heat source that matches the size of the pot to prevent the handle from overheating.
7. Allow the coffee to heat slowly, without stirring, until it starts to froth and the surface begins to bubble. Be attentive during this process to prevent it from boiling over.
8. As soon as the froth starts to form, remove the cezve from the heat and let it sit for a few seconds to allow the coffee grounds to settle.
9. Return the cezve to low heat and let it froth up again. Repeat this step two more times, removing it from the heat when the froth forms.
10. After the third frothing, pour the coffee slowly and evenly into demitasse cups, including the froth. Be cautious to avoid pouring the coffee grounds.
11. Allow the coffee to settle for a few moments, allowing any remaining grounds to sink to the bottom.
12. Serve the Turkish coffee with a glass of water on the side, as it is customary to cleanse the palate before drinking.

Enjoy your traditional Turkish coffee!

Alternative Methods for Making Turkish Coffee

If you don't have a traditional cezve or ibrik, or if you're simply looking for a new way to enjoy Turkish coffee, there are alternative methods available.

In this section, we will explore two alternative approaches to making Turkish coffee: the saucepan method and using a coffee maker.

Saucepan Method to Make Turkish Coffee at Home

The saucepan method is a practical alternative to the traditional cezve or ibrik. To make Turkish coffee using a saucepan, simply add finely ground coffee and water to a small saucepan or pot, and gently bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat while stirring.

Repeat the process three times to create a thick foam on top of the coffee, and you're ready to enjoy your homemade Turkish coffee.

Although this method may not produce as much foam or froth as the traditional method, it still results in a delicious cup of Turkish coffee.

Using a Coffee Maker to make Turkish Coffee

Using ground Turkish coffee in a coffee machine is another alternative method for making Turkish coffee.

Start by using 4 scoops of Turkish coffee if you typically use 2 scoops of regular coffee per cup. If your coffee machine features a concentrated setting, such as an espresso setting, this can also work well for making Turkish coffee.

While these methods may not be as traditional as using a cezve or ibrik, they still allow you to enjoy the rich taste of Turkish coffee in the comfort of your home.

Automatic Turkish Coffee Makers

Using an automatic Turkish coffee maker, such as the Arzum Okka or similar models, offers several advantages such as convenience, consistency, and time-saving benefits. With the push of a button, it handles the entire brewing process, ensuring reliable results and saving you time. It also comes with safety features and easy cleaning options.

Okka Turkish Coffee Maker Review

The Okka Turkish Coffee Machine is a popular and well-regarded appliance designed specifically for brewing traditional Turkish coffee. With its built-in grinder, adjustable temperature settings, and timer, the Okka Turkish Coffee Maker offers a convenient solution for coffee lovers.

The Arzum Okka Turkish Coffee Machine offers a convenient and efficient way to make Turkish coffee at home. It features a sleek and compact design that fits well in any kitchen. The machine is easy to use, allowing you to prepare authentic Turkish coffee with just the push of a button.

One of the notable features of the Arzum Okka is its automatic brewing process. It handles the entire brewing process, including the foam formation and ideal brewing time, without the need for constant monitoring. This ensures consistent results with each brew.

The coffee quality produced by the Arzum Okka is commendable, as it delivers a rich and flavorful cup of Turkish coffee. The machine is designed to maintain the traditional brewing techniques, resulting in a strong and aromatic beverage.

While the Arzum Okka Turkish Coffee Machine offers convenience and ease of use, it is important to note that it is specifically designed for Turkish coffee and may not be suitable for other brewing methods. Additionally, it may be pricier compared to traditional stovetop brewing methods.

Overall, if you are a fan of Turkish coffee and desire a convenient way to brew it at home, the Arzum Okka Turkish Coffee Machine is worth considering. It combines modern technology with the traditional art of Turkish coffee brewing, resulting in a flavorful and authentic cup of coffee.

Turkish Coffee Making Competitions

Every year, Turkish coffee enthusiasts and professionals gather from around the world to showcase their skills and compete in the exhilarating Turkish coffee making competitions. These competitions celebrate the rich cultural heritage and artistry behind brewing the perfect cup of Turkish coffee. One of the most prestigious events is the World Cezve/Ibrik Championship, where participants demonstrate their expertise in roasting, grinding, and brewing techniques using the traditional cezve, a small long-handled coffee pot. The competition features intense rounds of judging, evaluating aroma, taste, presentation, and overall craftsmanship. Additionally, the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) Cezve/Ibrik Championship highlights the region's unique coffee culture and talents, attracting participants from countries with a deep-rooted coffee tradition. These thrilling competitions not only honor the traditional method of Turkish coffee preparation but also foster a sense of camaraderie among coffee enthusiasts worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Turkish coffee with normal coffee?

Yes, it is possible to make a variation of Turkish-style coffee using regular ground coffee, although it won't have the same authentic taste and texture as traditional Turkish coffee made from finely ground Turkish coffee beans. Turkish coffee is known for its unique preparation and specific grind size.

If you don't have access to Turkish coffee, you can try using finely ground espresso or dark roast coffee as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ from authentic Turkish coffee. Adjust the amount of coffee to suit your taste preferences and follow the same brewing process outlined in the previous instructions.

Remember that Turkish coffee is typically brewed without filtering, so the coffee grounds will settle at the bottom of the cup. Allow the coffee to settle before sipping to avoid consuming the grounds.

Why is my Turkish coffee not foaming?

There could be a few reasons why your Turkish coffee is not foaming:

1. Coffee freshness: Ensure that you are using freshly roasted and ground Turkish coffee. Stale coffee may not produce sufficient foam.
2. Water temperature: The water temperature plays a crucial role in creating foam. Make sure the water is hot but not boiling when you start brewing. Boiling water can prevent the foam from forming.
3. Coffee-to-water ratio: Adjust the amount of coffee used. If you're using too little coffee, it may not generate enough foam. Increase the amount slightly and see if it makes a difference.
4. Grinding consistency: Check the fineness of the coffee grind. Turkish coffee requires an extremely fine grind, almost like a powder. If the grind is too coarse, it may affect the foam formation.
5. Heating process: Ensure that you are heating the coffee slowly and gently. Avoid rapid boiling, as it can prevent the foam from developing properly. Maintain a low and steady heat throughout the brewing process.
6. Cezve or ibrik size: The size and shape of the coffee pot can affect the foam formation. Make sure your cezve or ibrik is suitable for creating foam. It should have a wide enough base to allow the foam to rise without overflowing.

By paying attention to these factors and making adjustments, you should be able to achieve a nice foam on your Turkish coffee.

What is the ratio of Turkish coffee to water?

The traditional ratio for brewing Turkish coffee is one demitasse cup (approximately 60-70 ml or 2-2.5 fl oz) of water to one heaping tablespoon of finely ground Turkish coffee.

This ratio can be adjusted based on personal preference for a stronger or milder cup of coffee. Some individuals prefer their Turkish coffee stronger and may use slightly more coffee per cup, while others prefer a milder taste and may use slightly less coffee.

Feel free to experiment and adjust the ratio to find your preferred balance of strength and flavor.

How to make Turkish sand coffee at home?

To make Turkish sand coffee at home, you can follow these steps:

1. Prepare a cezve (Turkish coffee pot) and finely ground Turkish coffee.
2. Measure one demitasse cup of cold water for each cup of coffee.
3. Mix water, coffee, and optional sugar in the cezve.
4. Place the cezve on sand or a heat source (stovetop or electric burner).
5. Heat slowly without stirring until foam forms on the surface.
6. Remove from heat briefly, then return to continue brewing three times.
7. Pour into cups, allowing the foam to settle.
8. Serve and enjoy

How many calories are in a cup of Turkish coffee?

Turkish coffee is typically consumed without any added sweeteners or milk, which means it is a very low-calorie beverage. A cup of Turkish coffee, brewed without any additional ingredients, contains only about 2-3 calories.

The calorie count may vary slightly depending on the specific brand or type of coffee used, but overall, Turkish coffee is considered a calorie-friendly beverage. However, if you add sugar or milk to your Turkish coffee, the calorie content will increase accordingly based on the amount and type of ingredients you use.

On average, a teaspoon of sugar contains about 16 calories. Therefore, if you add one teaspoon of sugar to your Turkish coffee, you can estimate an additional 16 calories to the coffee itself, which typically has 2-3 calories. Thus, a cup of Turkish coffee with one teaspoon of sugar would have around 18-19 calories.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific brand or type of coffee used and the exact amount of sugar added.