Many people, including myself, see Turkish coffee as a favorite caffeinated beverage.
Its distinctive preparation method and rich, bold flavor make it truly special. But did you know that it didn’t actually originate from Turkey?
Sounds crazy, right? Luckily, here you’ll learn all about its beginnings. If you are interested in learning more about the history of Turkish coffee, see this article.
Where did Turkish coffee originate?
According to Whole Latte Love, it was in the 16th century that Ozdemir Pasha, the Turkish Governor of Yemen, brought the precious beans to Sultan Suleiman I, who liked them right away.
Coffeehouses, known as “kıraathane,” began to spring up all over the city, serving as social hubs where people gathered to enjoy this newfound beverage. They became an integral part of Istanbul’s culture.
The preparation and serving of this beverage were elevated to an art form. Skilled baristas, known as “kahveci usta,” were highly respected for their ability to create the perfect cup of coffee.
The popularity of this coffee spread far beyond the borders of the Ottoman Empire. It found its way to the Balkans, North Africa, and even as far as Vienna.
How did the coffee come from Yemen?
According to popular legend, the discovery of coffee can be attributed to an Ethiopian goatherd. One day, he noticed that goats became unusually energetic and playful after consuming the red cherries from a particular type of tree.
Intrigued by this observation, he decided to try the cherries himself. To his surprise, he experienced a surge of energy.
Word of this newfound energizing fruit spread, eventually reaching the villages of Ethiopia. At first, the monks deemed it devil’s work and threw it into the fire.
Thanks to the heat, the well-known smell of the coffee spread around and got the monks to reconsider their initial decision.
If you want to learn more surprising facts about Turkish coffee, check out what it is made of.
Final thoughts
While Turkish coffee might not have its roots in Turkey, the country played a pivotal role in shaping the coffee culture as we know it today.
This brew is not just a drink, it’s a piece of history, a social connector, and a symbol of hospitality.
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.
