Turkish coffee is one of the oldest coffee brewing methods in the world.
Rich in history, culture and tradition, it's brewed differently from almost every other coffee method you'll encounter today. Rather than filtering the coffee, the grounds remain in the cup, creating a thick, full-bodied and intensely flavoured experience.
While it may seem complicated, making Turkish coffee at home is surprisingly simple.
What Makes Turkish Coffee Different?
The biggest difference is the grind size. Turkish coffee uses an ultra-fine grind—finer than espresso. The coffee is almost powder-like in texture.
The coffee is gently heated in a small pot called a cezve (or ibrik), creating a rich brew with a distinctive layer of foam on top.
What You'll Need
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Turkish coffee pot (cezve)
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Turkish coffee or ultra-finely ground coffee
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Cold water
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Small coffee cup
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Sugar (optional)
Traditional Turkish Coffee Recipe
For one cup:
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60ml cold water
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6–7g Turkish ground coffee
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Sugar to taste (optional)
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Add the water, coffee and sugar (if using) to the cezve.
Stir thoroughly before placing it on the heat.
Step 2: Heat Slowly
Place the cezve over low heat.
This part is important. Turkish coffee should never be rushed.
As the coffee heats, a foam will begin forming on the surface.
Step 3: Watch Carefully
Just before the coffee boils, the foam will rise towards the top.
Remove the cezve from the heat before it boils over.
Traditionally, some of the foam is spooned into the cup before the remaining coffee is poured.
Step 4: Pour and Rest
Pour slowly into the cup.
Allow the coffee to sit for a minute or two so the grounds can settle to the bottom.
How to Drink Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee isn't filtered. The grounds remain in the cup and are not intended to be consumed. Drink slowly and stop before reaching the final sip where the grounds collect.
A small glass of water is often served alongside to cleanse the palate.
What Does Turkish Coffee Taste Like?
Expect a rich, concentrated flavour with a heavy body and lingering finish.
Because the coffee is brewed directly with the water rather than filtered, it delivers a depth and intensity that many coffee lovers find incredibly rewarding.
A Brewing Method Steeped in Tradition
Turkish coffee is more than just a way to make coffee.
It's a ritual that has brought people together for centuries. Taking the time to prepare it properly slows the process down and creates a coffee experience that's every bit as enjoyable as the drink itself.