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If you’re a coffee lover, then you simply must try Turkish coffee. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also an integral part of Turkish culture. In this article, we’re going to take you on a journey through the history and culture of Turkish coffee, teach you how to drink it like a local and recommend the best places in Istanbul to find it.
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The History of Turkish Coffee
Coffee first came to Turkey in the 16th century, and it quickly became an important part of Turkish culture. In fact, it was so significant that it was declared a “national drink” by the Ottoman Empire. Today, Turkish coffee is still an important part of Turkish culture and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Turkish Coffee Culture and Traditions
Turkish coffee is more than just a drink in Turkey. It’s a symbol of hospitality and socializing. When you’re invited into someone’s home in Turkey, it’s customary to be offered a cup of Turkish coffee. The act of drinking coffee together is a way of bonding and showing respect to your guests.
How to Drink Turkish Coffee
Drinking Turkish coffee is an art form. First, the coffee is brewed in a special pot called a cezve. It’s then served in a small cup called a fincan, along with a glass of water. To properly enjoy Turkish coffee, take a sip of water to cleanse your palate, then take a small sip of coffee. Continue sipping slowly and enjoying the rich flavor until you’ve finished the cup.
The Importance of Water When Drinking Turkish Coffee
Water is an important part of the Turkish coffee experience. It’s served alongside the coffee to cleanse your palate between sips. It’s also used to rinse out the cups before serving the coffee. Make sure to drink water before and after drinking Turkish coffee to fully appreciate the flavor.
Turkish Coffee and Turkish Delight
Another tradition in Turkey is serving Turkish delight with Turkish coffee. The sweet, sticky candy complements the strong, bitter taste of the coffee perfectly. To enjoy this combination like a local, take a small bite of the Turkish delight, then follow it with a sip of coffee.
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- Istanbul: Guided Food and Culture Tour: Discover the flavors of Asia and Europe on a food tour of Istanbul. Conquer the cuisines of the city’s 7 hills by following a local to neighborhood cafés for Kurdish food, typical drinks, and more.
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- Istanbul: Guided Food Tour of Street Food and Markets: Explore Istanbul’s culinary delights on a guided tour of the vibrant Kadikoy neighborhood. Try authentic Turkish delicacies like creamy kaymak, freshly baked simit, tantalizing fish sandwiches, mouthwatering iskender kebap, and more.
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Where to Find the Best Turkish Coffee in Istanbul
Istanbul is home to some of the best Turkish coffee shops in the world. Some of our favorite places to find Turkish coffee include Mandabatmaz, Fazıl Bey’s Turkish Coffee, and Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi. You can also find famous Turkish coffee brands like Selamlique and Nuri Toplar in Istanbul.
Luckily, we’ve put together a digest of the top 10 places to find Turkish coffee in Istanbul.
Check out our Turkish Coffee in Istanbul: 10 Best Places to Satisfy Your Caffeine Cravings digest to explore these unique coffee shops and learn more about the history and culture of Turkish coffee.
Turkish Sand Coffee
Turkish sand coffee, or Turkish coffee brewed in sand, is a unique way of preparing coffee that’s popular in Turkey. The sand is heated, and the cezve is placed in the sand to heat the coffee. The slow heating process allows the flavors to fully develop and results in a rich and aromatic cup of coffee. You can find Turkish sand coffee at places like Cafe Mandabatmaz and Karaköy Gümrük Han.
Turkish Coffee Fortune-Telling
Fortune-telling with Turkish coffee is a popular tradition in Turkey. After you finish your cup of coffee, turn the cup upside down on the saucer and let it cool. Once it’s cool, the grounds will form patterns that can be interpreted to reveal your fortune.
How to Make Turkish Coffee at Home
If you want to enjoy Turkish coffee at home, you’ll need a cezve and some finely ground Turkish coffee. Combine the coffee and water in the cezve, then heat it over low heat until it starts to foam. Remove it from the heat and let it sit for a minute before pouring it into a cup. For a more detailed recipe, check out this article “How to Make Turkish Coffee: A Local’s Guide to Istanbul’s Rich Coffee Culture”.
Turkish Coffee Brands and Where to Find Them
If you’re a fan of Turkish coffee, you might want to consider trying some of the best Turkish coffee brands available. Read our guide where you will find the best Turkish coffee brands you can buy in Istanbul. Read more…
Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi
One of the best Turkish coffee brands is Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi. This brand has been producing high-quality coffee since 1871 and is known for its rich taste and aroma. Another great brand is Nuri Toplar. This brand uses a special blend of Arabica and Robusta beans to create a smooth and balanced flavor.
Kahve Dunyasi
If you’re looking for something a little different, you might want to try coffee from the Kahve Dunyasi brand. This brand offers a wide range of flavored coffees, including hazelnut, vanilla, and caramel.
Turkish coffee brands can be purchased from a variety of sources, including special Grand Bazaar, local supermarkets, and online stores. No matter which brand you choose, be sure to enjoy your Turkish coffee in the traditional way – in a small cup with a piece of Turkish delight on the side. This will help to balance the strong flavor of the coffee and provide a sweet contrast to its bitterness.
Turkish Coffee Sets and Machines
What is a Turkish Coffee Set? A Turkish coffee set is a collection of items used to make and serve Turkish coffee. It typically includes a cezve (Turkish coffee pot), cups and saucers, and a tray.
Different Types of Turkish Coffee Sets
There are many different types of Turkish coffee sets available, ranging from simple and traditional to modern and sophisticated. Some sets are made from traditional materials such as copper or brass. However, others are made from more contemporary materials like stainless steel or glass.
How to Choose the Best Turkish Coffee Set for Your Needs
If you want to stick to tradition, consider a cezve made from copper. However, there are many modern and sophisticated sets available as well, made from materials like stainless steel or glass. Ultimately, choose what you like and what suits your needs best.
Where to Find the Best Turkish Coffee Sets and Machines in Istanbul
You can find a wide variety of Turkish coffee sets and machines in local shops, markets, and bazaars. Some popular places to find Turkish coffee sets include Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, and Arasta Bazaar. Read more…
Conclusion: All Turkish Coffee Traditions in One Post
We hope this guide has inspired you to try Turkish coffee and experience the rich history and culture of Turkey. Whether you’re in Istanbul or enjoying a cup at home, remember to savor each sip and appreciate the tradition and hospitality that comes with drinking Turkish coffee.
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