Turkish coffee is seen as far more than a caffeine hit or a social drink in Türkiye – it’s a beverage woven into local culture and tradition. If you’re partial to strong black coffee, give it a go. Its unfiltered taste and consistency is unique, and you never know, you may even find a local to read your fortune from the cup when you’ve finished!

ABOUT TURKISH COFFEE

Turkish coffee, known as Turk kahve, is a well-loved beverage enjoyed throughout the country, and it has a long history and significant cultural importance. Although it resembles espresso and is served in a similar small cup, it’s decidedly different. It’s unfiltered, and the coffee grounds are left in the cup when served. Any coffee beans can be used to make Turkish coffee, but arabica beans are considered the best. The ground coffee, sugar and water are brought to a boil in a traditional small pot called a cezve or ibrik, then taken from the heat as it begins to froth. It’s authentically brewed over coals, pored then left to stand for a few minutes before drinking to let the sediment settle. These grounds are what give Turkish coffee its unique taste and set it apart from most other coffee variations, and it’s normally served with lokum (Turkish Delight) and a glass of still water on the side.

THE HISTORY OF TURKISH COFFEE

The origins of coffee itself are hazy. Legend would suggest it originated in Africa in the 9^th century when an Ethiopian shepherd discovered his goats got excited after eating a coffee plant. They say the man took the plant to a monk who discarded the beans in his fire. The intriguing smell that resulted led the monk to experiment with the roasted beans and hot water, and soon after, the first coffee was born. Moving on from legend, what we do know is that coffee first made its way to Istanbul around 1540. The Governor of Yemen introduced it to the famous Sultan, Suleman the Magnificent. The Sultan’s staff developed a new way of preparing the drink using mortars to grind the beans and a unique pot to brew them. It was a hit. The Sultan loved the taste, raw consistency, and energising properties, so he spread the word throughout the palace and the local elite. It became known as Turkish coffee and became loved by the masses throughout the Ottoman Empire.

TURKISH COFFEE HOUSES

During the height of the Ottoman Empire, from the mid-1500s, Turkish coffee houses became the leading social haunt for men. They were a place to gather, read, discuss business and play games. Coffee houses sprung up everywhere and played a significant and influential role in local life. Hot debate and political discourse became common, often leading to unrest. At one point coffee houses were deemed such a threat that they were prohibited, a ban lasting seven years, until the death of Sultan Murad IV in 1640. Today, coffee houses still play a significant role in local life, and you’ll find them in every port and town you visit. Some are still local haunts frequented by men, others far more modern and enjoyed by the family – do stop and enjoy a Turkish coffee made by a traditional Turkish barista during your travels in Türkiye.

A BREW BEFORE SAYING “I DO”.

Turkish coffee became so well regarded in Ottoman times that it became part of wedding customs. Traditionally, before a wedding went ahead, the groom and his family visited the brides home to ask for her hand in marriage. On receiving the guests, the bride made Turkish coffee and served it to the prospective in-laws. Sugar was added to all but the grooms, where salt was substituted instead. The groom was expected to drink the cup without fussing or signs of displeasure, as a show of his love for his lady and manliness!

TURKISH COFFEE AND FORTUNE TELLING

Another interesting Turkish custom is telling fortunes from the sediment left in the Turkish coffee cup. Due to the drinks unfiltered nature, you know when you’re done drinking as you’re left with a thick layer of grounds at the bottom of the cup. At this point, the saucer is placed on top of the cup, a silent wish is made, and it’s turned over and left to cool for a few minutes. Once turned back, a fortune-teller, known as a Falci, can interpret the shapes and patterns left behind. Professional readers can be found in some places, but many locals know the basics and are happy to point out marks with meaning to tell you what your future holds. Positive symbols to look out for are said to be circles and rings meaning marriage and love, a crescent moon for good luck, a fish or a door for new opportunities, and spiders or palm trees for wealth and financial gain.

ORDER TURKISH COFFEE WITH YOUR PROVISIONS

Turkish coffee is a popular drink and one particularly enjoyed by Arabs, Turks and those from the Middle East. If you would like 360 Yachting to arrange Turkish coffee and lokum or baklava (its traditional accompaniment) to be delivered with your provisions, please CONTACT US.