Traditional Turkish coffee brewing. Pexels photo by Ahmed.
Turkish coffee is more than just a beverage—it’s a centuries-old tradition deeply embedded in Middle Eastern, Balkan, and Mediterranean cultures. Known for its strong, unfiltered nature and rich foam, Turkish coffee is prepared using finely ground coffee beans and brewed in a special pot called a cezve or ibrik. The preparation method is unique, creating a thick, aromatic drink that is often accompanied by fortune-telling based on the coffee grounds left in the cup.
History and Cultural Significance
Turkish coffee dates back to the 16th century, when it was introduced to the Ottoman Empire. It quickly became a staple in social gatherings, royal courts, and coffeehouses. The brewing method was refined over time, and today, Turkish coffee is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
In Turkey, coffee is often served with a glass of water to cleanse the palate and Turkish delight or chocolate to complement its bold flavor. The tradition of reading coffee grounds—known as tasseography—adds an element of mysticism to the experience.
The James Bond Connection
In From Russia with Love, James Bond’s journey to Istanbul introduces him to the rich traditions of Turkish hospitality, including Turkish coffee. When Bond meets Kerim Bey, the head of MI6’s Station T, he is offered coffee—a gesture that signifies trust and camaraderie in Turkish culture. Kerim Bey asks Bond how he takes his coffee, to which Bond replies, “medium sweet”. This small but significant detail reflects Bond’s adaptability and appreciation for local customs.
Turkish coffee, known for its strong, unfiltered nature and thick foam, plays a subtle role in the novel, reinforcing the atmosphere of intrigue and sophistication that surrounds Bond’s mission in Istanbul. The ritual of drinking Turkish coffee, often accompanied by fortune-telling, adds an element of mystery—perfectly suited to the world of espionage.
Though Turkish coffee was already well-known in Europe and among those familiar with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures, its presence in From Russia with Love introduced many Bond fans to its deep-rooted tradition. The coffee becomes more than just a drink—it serves as a bridge between Bond and the world he is navigating, reinforcing themes of trust, sophistication, and cultural immersion that define his mission in Istanbul.
How to Make Authentic Turkish Coffee
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold water (use a Turkish coffee cup for measurement)
- 1 heaping tablespoon finely ground Turkish coffee
- Sugar (optional) – adjust to taste:
- Sade (no sugar)
- Az şekerli (lightly sweetened, ½ teaspoon)
- Orta (medium sweet, 1 teaspoon)
- Şekerli (very sweet, 2 teaspoons)
- Cardamom (optional) – for extra aroma
Equipment:
- Cezve (ibrik) – a small, long-handled pot
- Turkish coffee cups – small, demitasse-style cups
Instructions:
- Measure the water using a Turkish coffee cup and pour it into the cezve.
- Add the coffee and sugar (if using) directly into the water. Do not stir yet.
- Place the cezve on low heat and gently stir to combine the ingredients.
- Let the coffee heat slowly—as it warms, foam will begin to form.
- Just before boiling, remove the cezve from heat and scoop some foam into each cup.
- Return the cezve to heat and allow it to rise again. Remove before it fully boils.
- Pour the coffee slowly into the cups, ensuring the foam remains intact.
- Let it sit for a minute to allow the grounds to settle before drinking.
Tips for the Perfect Turkish Coffee:
- Use extra-fine coffee grounds for the best texture.
- Never stir after brewing, as it will collapse the foam.
- Serve with water and sweets to enhance the experience.
- Enjoy slowly, savoring the rich, bold flavors.
Final Thoughts
Turkish coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a social experience, and a symbol of hospitality. Whether you’re making it at home or enjoying it in a traditional café, the deep flavors and cultural significance make every sip special.
