How To Make Turkish Coffee With An Espresso Machine

So you have an espresso machine, and you’re craving a cup of Turkish coffee? Well, you’re in luck! With a little know-how and a creative twist, you can use your espresso machine to make this robust Turkish beverage.

While using an espresso machine can be a clever workaround, if you ever decide to dive deeper into the traditional preparation, here you can find the ideal Turkish coffee pots for home use.

Step-by-step guide on how to make Turkish coffee with an espresso machine

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you brew this delightful beverage:

Step 1: Grind your coffee

First things first, get a fresh and finely ground Turkish coffee. This is crucial as the fine grind ensures a strong and intense flavor. Remember, Turkish coffee is meant to be robust and full-bodied, so go for a dark roast.

Step 2: Measure your coffee

You’ll typically need one heaping teaspoon of coffee per cup, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences. You can add sugar if you want!

Step 3: Heat it up

Make sure your espresso machine’s reservoir has enough water and turn it on. Place the coffee-filled Turkish coffee pot on the steam pipe, making sure it’s securely placed. The steam pipe will act as a heat source, gently warming up the coffee.

Step 4: Don’t let it boil

Pay close attention here! Turkish coffee is not meant to reach boiling point, as this will affect its taste and texture. Keep an eye on the coffee as it heats up, and make sure to remove it from the steam pipe just before it starts to boil.

And there you have it! With a little creativity and the help of your espresso machine’s steam pipe, you can enjoy a delicious cup of Turkish coffee.

How to make the most of each sip of coffee?

To savor the rich aroma and unique taste of your Turkish coffee, keep these tips in mind.

Tip #1. Pour with finesse: Turkish coffee is traditionally served in small demitasse cups. When pouring, do it slowly and with a steady hand to ensure that the grounds settle at the bottom of the cup, giving you a smooth and sediment-free sip.

Tip #2. Let it rest: Allow your freshly brewed Turkish coffee to rest for a moment before taking the first sip. This brief pause allows the coffee grounds to settle at the bottom. 

Tip #3. Sip and savor: Take small, delicate sips and let the flavors dance on your palate. Notice the complex notes and the lingering aftertaste that Turkish coffee is renowned for.

Tip #4. Pair it up: Turkish coffee pairs exceptionally well with a variety of sweet treats.

Can you use Turkish coffee in an espresso machine? And why not!

While it may seem tempting to experiment, it’s important to note that Turkish coffee is not suitable for use in an espresso machine. Here’s why:

Grind size

Turkish coffee requires an extremely fine grind, much finer than what is typically used for espresso. Espresso machines are designed to work with a coarser grind to allow for proper extraction, and using a fine coffee grind can lead to clogging and damage to your machine.

Brewing method 

The prolonged contact time between the water and Turkish coffee during the brewing process allows for the extraction of intense flavors and aromas. Espresso machines, on the other hand, rely on high-pressure extraction to produce a concentrated shot of coffee in a short amount of time.

Sediment and crema

Turkish coffee is known for its characteristic foam. In contrast, espresso machines aim to produce a smooth and cream-topped shot of coffee.

Final thoughts

To truly enjoy the rich and authentic experience of Turkish coffee, it’s best to use traditional brewing methods such as a cezve (Turkish coffee pot). These methods allow for precise control over the brewing process, ensuring that you achieve the desired flavor, aroma, and texture that Turkish coffee is cherished for.

If you are interested in alternative methods of making Turkish coffee, see why you should never use a drip coffee maker.