Contrary to what other people know, Turkish coffee is not a kind of coffee but rather a method of making coffee. Technically, it is fine to use any kind of coffee bean but many coffee consumers prefer using Latin American coffee blends that have Robusta and Arabica beans. Of course, these blends can also include other bean combinations from Asia and Africa, depending on what is available in your area or on what kind of coffee bean blend you prefer.
Since Turkish coffee is literally made through its creation, it is very important to know the right method and use the right materials if possible. The first thing you will need is an ibrik or a small pot for coffee making. If you do not have a real ibrik, then an ordinary small saucepan would be sufficient.
The finely ground beans are boiled in this pot. Sugar is then added while the coffee is brewing. This is important since Turkish coffee is made without milk, and sugar is always just an option for drinkers. Note that while sugar is an option, if preferred by the drinker or the preparer, then it is cooked together with the coffee beans and not added afterwards. Let the coffee boil and wait for it to foam. Once foaming is achieved, you can then remove the ibrik or coffee pot from the heat.
Practically, Turkish coffee is served in a cup without the serving spoon since there is no need to add anything after it is poured into the drinker’s cup. Traditionally, the grounds are also allowed to settle in the bottom of the drinking cup.
There are some things you need to remember when making and serving Turkish coffee. One is that this kind of coffee should be served with foam on its top. This makes it easily distinguished as authentic when you simply order Turkish coffee in a coffee shop. If you are making Turkish coffee at home, then be sure not to stir after you have poured the blend into a drinking cup. Stirring would make the foam collapse. The kind of water to use is also important. Remember to use cold water when making this type of coffee on your own. As for the coffee beans, it is always better to use Arabic coffee but you can actually just buy any kind. Make sure, however, that the coffee beans will be ground powder-like (or you can tell the grinder that you will use them for making Turkish coffee).
To those concerned about their health, know that this coffee type is as healthy as the others. If you are used to brewing your favorite blend in your coffee maker, know that nothing will change expect the method of preparing the coffee and the end product. Health experts say that two cups of Turkish coffee – or any other coffee – is good for the heart but too much can also have its downside.
If you have never tried making this type of coffee, then it is about time to try it. Know that making Turkish coffee is actually just as simple and as quick as making any good cup of coffee.
