What is Turkish Coffee?

Turkish coffee is not only a beverage, but also a centuries-old culture, tradition and ritual. This unique drink, prepared by cooking finely ground coffee beans in a coffee pot, has been recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and has become one of the symbols of Turkish culture all over the world. In this article, you will find answers to many questions, such as what Turkish coffee is, how it originated, why it is so special, and what varieties there are. Here is everything you need to know about Turkish coffee.The arrival of Turkish coffee to Ottoman lands dates back to the 16th century. Coffee beans were brought to Istanbul via Abyssinia (today's Ethiopia) and Yemen, where they were prepared with a new brewing method and took on a brand new identity. This new brewing method, in which water and coffee were cooked together in a coffee pot, gave coffee a unique flavour. Over time, it became an indispensable treat in palaces, mansions and coffee houses.Turkish coffee is not just a beverage; it is an integral part of hospitality, friendly conversations and traditional ceremonies. It has become a tradition to offer coffee, especially during the ceremony of asking for a girl. The prospective bride offering salted coffee to the prospective groom is a humorous test. At the same time, the fact that it is offered during festive visits, engagement and promise ceremonies, and even business negotiations reveals its place and prestige in social life.The traditional Turkish coffee recipe is quite simple but requires attention and care. Put finely ground coffee, water and optional sugar in a coffee pot. It is cooked slowly over low heat without stirring. Pour the foam into the cup, then add the remaining coffee. An important detail: Turkish coffee is not strained or filtered. It is served with the grounds. In this respect, it differs from other types of coffee in the world. It is usually served with water and Turkish delight.Although the basic recipe remains the same, different varieties of Turkish coffee have evolved over time:Black Turkish Coffee: It is prepared without sugar. It is preferred by those who want to get the real flavour of coffee.Low Sugar / Medium Sugar / Sugared Turkish Coffee: It is prepared with different sugar ratios according to taste.Dibek Coffee: It is a type of coffee obtained by beating in a traditional stone mortar, thicker ground and soft drinking.Menengiç Coffee: It is made from the fruit of the menengiç plant instead of coffee beans. It does not contain caffeine.Turkish Coffee with Milk: Unlike the traditional recipe, it is prepared with milk instead of water. It offers a creamier and softer flavour.Another feature that distinguishes Turkish coffee from other types of coffee is the tradition of fortune-telling. After drinking coffee, the cup is closed, and looking for clues about the future by interpreting the grounds has become a folk tradition. This tradition has become widespread as a social activity and entertainment element, especially among women.Scientific research shows that Turkish coffee has many benefits when consumed in moderation. Thanks to its intense antioxidant content, it supports cell renewal. It accelerates metabolism, provides clarity of mind and facilitates digestion. It is also stated that it can reduce the risk of diabetes when drunk without sugar. However, of course, as with every drink, excessive consumption should be avoided.In 2013, Turkish coffee was internationally recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This development shows that Turkish coffee is a part of the world's cultural heritage, not just Turkey's. Today, Turkish coffee machines are sold in many parts of the world, taught by baristas and served in speciality cafés. Turkey's coffee brands continue to gain a foothold in the global market.During the Ottoman period, there were periods when drinking coffee was banned, but the people continued to consume coffee despite this ban.Turkish coffee is one of the first types of coffee to go to Europe. In the 17th century, the first coffee houses opened in Vienna were introduced to coffee thanks to Turkish ambassadors.The saying 40 years of remembrance reflects the aspect of Turkish coffee associated with friendship and conversation.

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