Turkish coffee history is rich, interesting, and almost 500 years old. It went from humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon, leaving a mark in the lore of the time.
In fact, its cultural significance is so profound that it has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
Here I’ll tell you all you need to know about the journey of this legendary beverage.
💡 New to this brew? Learn the best way to brew Turkish coffee at home.
Turkish coffee history: A journey through the ages
Legend has it that the story of Turkish coffee began in the 16th century during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the Ottoman Empire.
It is said that the Governor of Yemen, Ozdemir Pasha, introduced it to the empire after being captivated by its enchanting aroma and stimulating effects during his rule in Yemen.
Popularity
Initially, Turkish coffee was a drink for the ruling elite. Coffee houses were gathering places for intellectuals, poets, and scholars.
However, it didn’t take long for its popularity to spread beyond the palace walls as coffee houses began to emerge throughout the empire. These places became social hubs where people from all walks of life would come together to discuss, play games, and even listen to music.
Traditions
Offering a cup of Turkish coffee to guests became a sign of respect and a way to forge connections. It was considered impolite to refuse this gesture, as it symbolized a willingness to engage in conversation and build relationships.
Turkish coffee also gave birth to a fascinating set of traditions. Here I talked about the 4 most surprising Turkish coffee customs.
Over time, Turkish coffee made its way beyond the borders of the Ottoman Empire and gained popularity in neighboring countries and regions.
Today, it continues to be cherished in various parts of the world, from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the trendy coffee shops of Europe and America.
Turkish coffee has become more than just a beverage. It represents a connection to history, tradition, and the art of coffee-making.
Turkish people value coffee so much that even Starbucks stores in Tukrey prepare it.
Fortune telling
While sipping on a cup of rich and aromatic Turkish coffee, it is not uncommon to find people seeking a glimpse into their future through the patterns formed by the coffee grounds settled at the bottom of the cup.
If you are curious about your future, all you have to do is to flip the cup once your coffee is done. The grounds to spread and create unique patterns.
From there, there are a lot of resources on the internet that explain how to interpret different patterns.
Serving and consuming traditions
Turkish coffee is served in small porcelain or ceramic cups called fincans. These cups are designed to preserve the heat of the coffee and allow for easy sipping.
The coffee is often accompanied by a glass of water, which serves as a cleanser between sips.
Drinking Turkish coffee involves a certain level of etiquette. You are supposed to drink the coffee slowly in contracts to a popular Italian brew – espresso.
As you reach the end of the cup, it’s common to leave a small amount of coffee grounds behind to avoid any grittiness. But instead of throwing those grounds, you can make great use of them.
When enjoying a cup of coffee, it is always good to have something to snack on. A piece of Turkish delight is a great option to get a perfect contrast. Here you can learn about three more snacks you can pair with Turkish coffee.
The global influence of Turkish coffee
During the Ottoman conquest, where the armies went, the coffee followed. For this reason, we have Greek, Serbian, Bosnian, and Cyprus coffees that are the same as Turkish coffee but have different names.
Additionally, Turkish coffee cousins in Egypt, Armenia, and Arab countries, are similar brewing methods, but with the addition of spices.
What is Turkish coffee?
The key ingredients are finely ground coffee beans, water, and sugar (it is optional). The coffee beans are ground to a very fine powder, almost like fine dust.
The water is typically added in a ratio of one cup of water to one heaping teaspoon of coffee, but you can adjust it to your preference.
Different types of Turkish coffee
From my point of view, alongside different types based on the sugar content, there is also Turkish sand coffee.
Based on sugar, there are four variations: sade (unsweetened), az sekerli (lightly sweetened), orta (medium sweetened), and sekerli (extra sweet).
Pro tip: If you have a sweet tooth, you can opt for more sugar, or if you prefer a more bitter taste, you can enjoy it without any sugar at all.
What is the traditional brewing process of Turkish coffee?
Turkish coffee is prepared in a special pot called an ibrik or cezve. It is a small, long-handled pot with a wide bottom and a narrow neck.
First, add water, coffee, and sugar (once again, if you prefer) to the pot and place it on low heat.
Stir it at the beginning until everything is mixed properly. Then leave it and don’t touch it.
The coffee is ready when the foam starts to rise. But don’t let it boil. That will destroy the foam that makes this coffee special.
The brewing process of Turkish coffee is not only a method of preparing a delicious beverage but also a ritual that brings people together.
It is often served in small cups called fincans that have beautiful patterns.
For me, the best thing about Turkish coffee isn’t the caffeine kick. It is a break from the hustle and bustle of life and savoring the present moment.
In Turkish culture, this ritual is often accompanied by engaging conversations, storytelling, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones.
Final thoughts
Turkish coffee, with its rich history spanning over 500 years, stands as a testament to the cultural significance and art of coffee-making that originated in the Ottoman Empire.
Today, as we sip this aromatic beverage, we don’t just taste coffee but connect with its timeless traditions, stories, and the essence of bonding over shared moments.
My journey through renowned bars and coffee shops over five years, as a barista, coffee aficionado, and former bartender, has honed my pursuit for the perfect cup. My passion for coffee isn’t just about the brew—it’s about sharing the knowledge and insights I’ve gleaned along the way.
