The taste of Turkish coffee is robust, full-bodied, and complex. It has a deep, rich aroma and a strong, bold flavor that lingers in your mouth long after you’ve taken your first sip.
The taste of this unique and history-rich beverage is heavily influenced by the way it’s brewed.
Overall, the taste is an acquired one – it’s not for everyone. But for those who appreciate bold flavors and rich aromas, there’s nothing quite like a cup of freshly brewed coffee to start your day off right!
Check out this piece to understand all aspects that make Turkish coffee stand out.
What makes Turkish coffee so different?
There are a few elements that impact the flavor and structure of this type of coffee.
The brewing process
Turkish coffee is made in a cezve, a small copper or brass pot with a long handle.
The process begins by adding water and sugar to the cezve over low heat on the stove. Once the sugar has dissolved, finely ground coffee is added to the mix and stirred gently.
As it simmers on low heat for several minutes, the foam begins to form on top, which indicates that it’s almost ready. When the foam gets a caramel color, your perfect cup of coffee is ready.
Coffee beans
The type of beans you use can make all the difference. In my opinion, if you want to make a truly authentic and delicious cup of Turkish coffee, there is only one choice: Arabica beans.
These beans are known for their high quality and delicate flavor profile. However, that doesn’t mean that Robusta beans are bad. They are the reason for the creamy foam associated with espresso.
How to Serve Turkish Coffee?
In addition to the method of brewing and the type of coffee beans, the way Turkish coffee is consumed also makes a significant difference.
When you serve it, you are participating in a centuries-old tradition that has deep cultural roots.
Turkish coffee should be served in a specific type of cup known as a fincan. These cups are small and delicate, typically made from porcelain or glass.
They are designed to hold only a small amount of liquid – no more than two or three sips at most. The reason for this is simple: This type of coffee is meant to be savored slowly, not gulped down like some cheap drip coffee.
Different types of Turkish coffee
There are a few different varieties to choose from, and one of the main differences between them is the amount of sugar used in the brewing process.
First up, we have sade kahve – this is your classic black coffee with no sugar added.
Orta kahve (medium-sweet Turkish coffee) is perhaps one of the most popular types among those who enjoy a bit of sweetness in their cup. This variety usually includes about one or two spoonfuls of sugar per cup.
We have cok sekerli kahve (sweet Turkish coffee), which is exactly what it sounds like – heaping spoonfuls of sugar are added during brewing.
Does Turkish coffee have grounds in it?
Yes, Turkish coffee does have grounds in it. Many people are put off by the idea of drinking coffee with actual grounds in it.
But let me tell you, that’s part of what makes this beverage unique and delicious.
Now, I know what you might be thinking – won’t all those grounds make the coffee taste gritty and unpleasant?
Not at all! They actually add to the flavor and texture of the experience.
When properly brewed, Turkish coffee is meant to be sipped slowly over time as you enjoy both its taste and aroma.
How fine is Turkish coffee?
One of the most unique characteristics of Turkish coffee is its fineness. In fact, it is said that it should be ground even finer than espresso beans.
The reasoning behind this is simple – the finer the grind, the more surface area there is for the water to interact with, resulting in a stronger and more flavorful cup of coffee.
Pro tip: Your coffee should be fine to rival baby powder if you want to achieve the best flavors.
Why is Turkish coffee so thick?
The grind size of the beans used in making this type of coffee is exceptionally fine. And as a result, it creates a thick and creamy brew. In addition, traditional brewing methods play an essential role in creating this thick consistency of this coffee.
Conclusion
Turkish coffee is a unique and rich beverage that has stood the test of time. The brewing process, which involves boiling finely ground coffee beans with water and sugar, creates a thick and intense flavor that is unlike any other coffee.
The type of beans used can also affect the taste, but ultimately it is the preparation method that sets it apart.
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.
