Turkish coffee is not just a drink, but a ritual that requires patience, attention to detail, and respect for ancient traditions. This method of preparation dates back to ancient times and is still considered one of the most exquisite.
Coffee brewing in Turkey dates back to the 15th century. Even back then, in the Ottoman Empire, it was served during celebrations, and master coffee makers were valued on a par with poets.
Modern research confirms that traditional brewing in a Turk allows you to preserve the maximum amount of essential oils and antioxidants, which makes the drink not only tasty but also healthy.
Turk or jezwa – what kind of vessel is it
A turka, or jezwa, is a traditional utensil for making oriental coffee. Its distinctive shape (wide bottom, narrow neck, long handle) contributes to even heating and the formation of a thick coffee foam, which is a sign of properly brewed coffee.
The volume of the turkey is chosen based on the number of servings.
It is important to pay attention to the material of manufacture: copper, brass, stainless steel, ceramic or even silver. A copper Turk with a tin coating is considered a classic. It conducts heat well and provides a deep flavor. Ceramic ones retain their temperature well. Steel ones are more durable, but can change the taste of coffee. Consider the heat source: gas, sand, electric stove.
What you need for the perfect coffee in the Turk
It all starts with the right choice of coffee beans. For cooking in a Turk, 100% Arabica beans are best suited – beans with a mild, rich flavor and slight acidity.
To maximize the flavor and aroma, choose freshly roasted beans and grind them just before brewing. The grind should be extremely fine to create a thick, distinctive froth and bring out the depth of flavor in the drink. Classic dosage: 1-2 teaspoons of coffee per 100 ml of water.
To make delicious coffee with an oriental flavor, use clean, soft water without impurities – it helps to fully reveal the flavor notes of the beans. You can add cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, or sugar to diversify the drink. Basic utensils (measuring cup, spoon) and a source of even heat are all you need for a real coffee ritual.
Step-by-step instructions for making classic coffee in a Turk
Pour water into the turka at the rate of 100 ml per 1 cup of the finished drink. Add 1-2 tsp of coffee, depending on your preferences. Add sugar and spices if desired. Stir after adding all the ingredients. Put the Turk on low heat. Stir once and leave it alone.
When the foam begins to rise to the edge, remove the turka from the heat (without letting it boil). You can repeat the heating 2-3 times.
Pour our Turkish coffee into small cups, keeping the cream. Serve the drink hot with a glass of water and oriental sweets.
Rules for making coffee in a Turk
To make coffee tasty and aromatic, it is important to brew coffee in a Turk properly: choose freshly roasted beans, ground very finely, cook over low heat or sand, avoiding boiling, as this destroys the aroma and cream. Always control the process, avoid old beans and coarse grinding, and let the drink brew before serving – then the coffee will delight you with its depth of flavor and rich aroma.
The best recipes for coffee in a Turk
In addition to classic Turkish coffee, you can prepare other popular coffee drinks in the Turk, experimenting with flavors and ingredients.
Arabic coffee is made in the same way as Turkish coffee, only with the addition of ground cardamom (1/4 tsp). It is served with dates or nuts.
To make Viennese-style coffee, add 1 tsp of grated chocolate to the ready-made classic coffee and serve with whipped cream.
Spiced coffee is also made like classic Turkish coffee. However, a mixture of spices is added to the bulk ingredients before heating: cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (on the tip of a knife). The spices add warmth and depth to the flavor.
Combine 50 ml of water, 50 ml of milk, and 1.5 tsp of coffee in a saucepan. Brew over low heat without boiling. The drink is soft and delicate.
Another interesting option is coffee with whipped egg yolk (Polish style).
Prepare coffee in the classic way (1 tsp. of bean coffee per 100 ml of water). Beat the egg yolk and sugar separately until creamy. Pour the hot coffee into a cup, add the beaten egg yolk and mix quickly. The result is a thick and rich drink.
Variations and features of making coffee in a Turk
Baristas often add their own accents to the classic recipe. Popular variations include replacing water with milk or cream, using honey instead of sugar, adding spices, and infusing coffee in cold water before brewing to enhance the flavor.
To achieve a consistent perfect result, use a scale and do not stir the coffee once it starts heating. Allow the coffee to “mature” over low heat and remove the turkey with a tilt, keeping the crema.
How to choose the best coffee for a Turk
Choose the right beans: the flavor, richness, and even the presence of cream depend on their variety, degree of roasting, and freshness.
For turka, 100% Arabica of medium to medium-dark roast is best. Robusta is sometimes added in small proportions for strength and creamy texture.
Try Ethiopia Ergacheffe with floral and citrus notes or the balanced Colombia Supremo with hints of nut and chocolate. These varieties, with their distinct aroma and deep flavor, are ideal for turka.
Buy your bean coffee from reputable stores, from producers who will offer the freshest product.
We will be glad to see you as our client. Kyiv City Roastery has been a leader among coffee producers in the Ukrainian market for many years. In addition to freshly roasted coffee, we will offer you everything you need to make it. Visit our website https://kyivcityroast.com.ua/ you can also find a wide range of beans. Our managers are just a phone call away and will advise you on the best variety to brew coffee in the Turk.
Conclusion
Brewing coffee in a Turk is more than just a brewing method, it is an ancient art that turns each cup into a unique ritual. Choose fresh Arabica beans, delicate grinding and slow brewing – these are the details that reveal the true depth of flavor. Add spices and a little creativity and your coffee will become an oriental masterpiece.
Turka is an ideal choice for those who appreciate quality, atmosphere and style.
