I love coffee, and one of my favorite varieties is Turkish coffee. It has a rich and unique taste that is hard to find in any other type of coffee. However, there is often confusion about whether Turkish coffee is instant or not. In this article, I will explore the authentic brewing method of Turkish coffee and explain why it is not considered instant.
First, let’s clarify what instant coffee is. Instant coffee is made from coffee beans that have been roasted, ground, and brewed. The liquid coffee is then freeze-dried or spray-dried to extract the water, leaving behind soluble coffee crystals. When you want to make a cup of instant coffee, all you need to do is add hot water and stir.
Now, let’s move on to Turkish coffee. Turkish coffee has a long and rich history that dates back centuries. It is a traditional method of brewing coffee that originated in the Ottoman Empire and is still popular in Turkey and other Middle Eastern countries today.
To make Turkish coffee, you will need finely ground coffee beans, water, and sugar (optional). The first step is to add the coffee, water, and sugar into a small pot called a cezve. The amount of each ingredient depends on your taste preferences, but traditionally, one teaspoon of ground coffee, one teaspoon of sugar, and one cup of water are used.
Once the ingredients are added to the cezve, it is placed on a stove or a small charcoal fire. The coffee is heated slowly over low heat, allowing the flavors to develop gradually. During this time, the coffee is stirred continuously to ensure even heating and to prevent it from boiling over.
As the coffee heats up, a froth starts to form on the surface. This froth is an essential part of Turkish coffee and is known as “kaimaki.” The kaimaki is formed by the oils and flavors of the coffee rising to the surface. It adds a creamy texture and taste to the finished coffee.
When the coffee is almost boiling, it is taken off the heat to let it settle. This process is repeated two more times, with the coffee being heated and removed from heat twice more. Each time, the coffee is brought to the verge of boiling but never allowed to boil.
After the third heating and removal from heat, the coffee is poured into small cups, including the froth. The cups used for Turkish coffee are traditionally small and handle-less, allowing the drinker to hold the hot cup by the rim.
Now that we understand the traditional brewing process of Turkish coffee let’s explore why it is not considered instant. Unlike instant coffee, Turkish coffee requires specialty equipment and a specific brewing method. It cannot be prepared quickly by simply adding hot water to coffee crystals.
The fine grind of the coffee used in Turkish coffee is another factor that sets it apart from instant coffee. Turkish coffee must be ground to a very fine consistency, almost like powdered sugar. This fine grind allows the coffee to dissolve fully in the water during the brewing process, resulting in a strong and flavorful cup of coffee.
The brewing time of Turkish coffee is also longer compared to instant coffee. Instant coffee is ready within seconds, whereas Turkish coffee requires several minutes of slow heating and stirring to bring out its flavors. This longer brewing process allows the coffee to develop complexity and depth, making it a truly unique beverage.
Furthermore, the cultural and social aspect of Turkish coffee plays a significant role in its authenticity. Turkish coffee is not just a drink; it is a cultural tradition that has been passed down through generations. It is often prepared and enjoyed as part of a social gathering or during special occasions. The ritual of making and serving Turkish coffee adds to its charm and makes it an experience rather than just a simple cup of coffee.
In conclusion, Turkish coffee is not considered instant. It is a traditional method of brewing coffee that requires specialty equipment, a specific brewing process, and time. Its fine grind, slow heating, and stirring, along with the cultural and social aspect, make Turkish coffee a unique and authentic beverage. So, the next time you have the opportunity, I highly recommend trying a cup of Turkish coffee and savoring its rich flavors and cultural significance.