What is a cezve Turkish coffee pot?
The Turkish Cezve, also known as Ibrik or Briki, is a small copper or brass pot used for making Turkish coffee, a traditional and flavorful style of coffee enjoyed by millions of people worldwide. This timeless pot creates the classic Turkish coffee experience by boiling ground coffee beans, sugar, and water together.
The cezve pot is available in Copper, Brass, Stainless steel, Bronze, Aluminum, or Ceramic. Its small, narrow-necked design and long handle make it perfect for creating an exceptional cup of Turkish coffee. It is easy to clean and maintain, stainless steel resists corrosion, and can withstand high temperatures to ensure the coffee is full of flavor and free from unwanted tastes.
The word "cezve" is pronounced "chez-vay".
What are the benefits of coffee made with a cezve?
Cezve has several benefits. The main advantage is that it creates a robust and flavorful cup of coffee. In addition, the small size of the cezve ensures that the coffee grounds are in contact with the boiling water for a more extended time, resulting in a more intense flavor. The slow, controlled process of making coffee with a cezve/ibrik also helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the coffee beans.
Additionally, the cezve does not require paper filters, resulting in a cup of coffee free of any paper residue. Finally, the cezve/ibrik is a great way to bring people together, as coffee-making is often a social activity.
How long does it take to make Turkish coffee in a cezve? It typically takes 5-7 minutes to make Turkish coffee in a cezve/ibrik. However, the time will vary slightly depending on the size of the cezve/ibrik and the amount of coffee used.
What type of coffee should I use for Turkish coffee in a cezve? When making Turkish coffee in a cezve/ibrik, it is best to use finely ground coffee, almost a powder, to ensure all the flavor is extracted. It is also essential to use a good quality coffee that is not overly bitter, as Turkish coffee has a distinctive taste. Some people prefer to use a blend of coffees, such as a dark roast and a medium roast, to create a more balanced flavor.
What is the history of the cezve?
This little pot has been a constant companion to Turkish coffee makers for centuries, steeped in tradition and infusing every cup with its signature flavor and aroma. The cezve also serves as a symbol of hospitality, inviting guests into homes with the warm and comforting scent of freshly brewed coffee.
Through the ages, cezve remains an integral part of Turkish culture, ensuring that the legacy of Turkish coffee will endure for generations to come. But it's not just for special occasions - it's a daily delight for coffee lovers everywhere. From its intricate designs to its hand-crafted beauty, the Turkish cezve is an actual work of art.
The cezve coffee-making tool has been around since the 15th century and originated in the Ottoman Empire in the Middle East. The name "cezve" comes from Turkish for "copper" and is derived from Arabic for "to boil." It is still popular today for making coffee in many countries, including Turkey, where it is used for making traditional Turkish coffee at social gatherings, typically served after meals.
The Turkish cezve is not just culturally important, but also seen as a work of art. These coffee-making tools are often decorated with elaborate patterns and designs, some of which are crafted by hand by talented artisans. As a result, collectors value these decorative cezves highly and consider them valuable works of art.
What is the difference between a cezve and an ibrik?
Nothing. There is no difference, "cezve" is the Turkish word, and "ibrik" is the Arabic word. Both refer to the same type of long-handled coffee pot. In the USA, "ibrik" is the more commonly used term. In Greece, "briki" refers to a long-handled coffee pot, similar to an ibrik or cezve. In Serbia, almost everyone calls this small pot cezve.
Also, the word "briki" is of Greek origin and (just like cezve and Ibrok) is used to describe a long-handled coffee pot used to prepare Greek coffee. :)
When choosing an ibrik/cezve, consider the body material, handle material, and capacity. Other factors, like feel and appearance, are personal preferences.
How to use a cezve? To use a cezve, fill it with cold water, and add a teaspoon of ground coffee. Stir the mixture and place the pot on a stove over medium-high heat until it reaches a simmer. The foam will also form on the surface as the water starts to boil. Remove the pot from the heat once the foam has reached the top, and pour the coffee into cups. If desired, you can add sugar or other ingredients. Enjoy!
Here is a detailed step-by-step guide on making Turkish coffee with a cezve.
What size cezve/ibrik do I need? The size of a cezve or Ibrik you need will depend on how much coffee you plan to make, one person, two, or more. A standard cezve or Ibrik is usually about four ounces, enough for one or two small cups of Turkish-style coffee. However, if you plan to make more than two cups of coffee, look for a larger size. The most common sizes are 8 ounces, 12 ounces, and 16 ounces.
How to clean a cezve? Cleaning a cezve Turkish coffee pot is quite simple:
- Empty any remaining coffee grounds and rinse the pot with warm water.
- Fill the pot with warm, soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes.
- Use a soft scrub brush to remove any built-up residue.
- Rinse the pot with clean water and allow it to dry before using it again.
- Dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.
If desired, temper the cezve by rubbing it with vegetable oil and heating it over a low flame for a few minutes. Allow it to cool down before use.
What is the heat temperature ideal when using cezve? The best temperature for cezve to make Turkish coffee is a low flame. This will ensure that the coffee is not boiled or burned and has a smooth, rich flavour. Using an electric stove for cezve is more straightforward, as this will provide more consistent heat. Gas stoves can produce more professional results but are more challenging to control and can lead to uneven heat, affecting the coffee's flavor.
What is the best coffee for cezve? The best type of coffee for cezve is a finely ground Turkish coffee blend. This type of coffee is specifically designed to be used in a cezve and will give you the best flavor and aroma.
Do you need a cezve for Turkish coffee? Yes, a cezve is necessary for making Turkish coffee. It is specifically designed to make Turkish coffee and other types of thick, strong coffees. However, other similar coffee pots can be used to make the coffee.
Is cezve safe? Yes, Turkish coffee cezve is secure to use. The most popular and safe material for a cezve is copper. Copper is ideal for heating coffee evenly and slowly, which helps to prevent it from boiling over or burning. The handle is also insulated to keep it cool to the touch.
What kind of cezve to buy (material)? As already mentioned at the beginning of this article, the most common materials used to make a cezve are:
- Copper
- Brass
- Stainless steel
- Bronze
- Aluminum
- Ceramic
The material a cezve is made from can influence the flavor of the coffee. Each material has unique properties and characteristics, such as heat conductivity and durability, that can affect the taste and quality of the coffee. For example, copper and Brass are good heat conductors, which means they heat evenly and quickly, producing a consistent and flavorful coffee.
On the other hand, aluminum and stainless steel are less reactive and less likely to affect the flavor of the coffee, but they do not heat as evenly as copper or Brass.
Ceramic cezve retains heat well and does not alter the coffee's flavor, but it can be brittle and may crack or break more quickly than other materials. Ultimately, the choice of material comes down to personal preference and the desired flavor profile of the coffee.
Where to buy a Turkish cezve?
Cezve can be purchased at many places, including online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, and Etsy, as well as at many kitchen and home stores. You may also find them at specialty stores that sell Turkish and Middle Eastern goods.
Here are some of the best cezve Turkish coffee pots
- Copper Bull DEMMEX Gorgeous Turkish Greek Hammered Copper Coffee Pot Ibrik Briki, 2mm Thick Copper (22 Oz Antiqued Copper)
- Caizen Coffee Quality Turkish Coffee Pot - Turkish Coffee Maker, Arabic Coffee Pot, Greek Briki, Turkish Coffee Cezve (15oz)
- DEMMEX Turkish Greek Copper Coffee Pot Stovetop for 2-3 Demitasse Cups, Wooden Handle, 100% Handmade in Turkey (Hammered Copper)
Using cezve is an opportunity for a fun social event, to come together and enjoy each other's company. It is used worldwide, from the Middle East and North Africa to Greece and Albania in Europe, and it is always a welcome addition to any kitchen.
So, as soon as you buy your new cezve, and before making your first perfect Turkish coffee, invite your family and friends to join you around the cezve. Create a special moment, share stories, laugh, and enjoy the unique coffee flavors prepared in cezve/ibrik/briki.