One of the first things that comes to mind for lovers of traditional coffee culture is Ottoman coffee. So, what is Ottoman coffee? The answer to this question is often confused with Turkish coffee. And you wouldn't be wrong. Ottoman coffee maintains the classic Turkish coffee line. However, spices and flavorings are added to its content in different mixing ratios, offering a "layered" drinking experience.
In this article, in addition to answering what Ottoman coffee is, we will discuss how it is prepared, its taste, and what you should pay attention to when choosing it.
What is Ottoman Coffee?
Ottoman coffee is a traditional type of coffee, basically brewed in a cezve like Turkish coffee, enriched with the addition of cardamom, mastic gum, carob, or various spices and flavorings to its mixture.
Ottoman coffee, which has a more aromatic, smooth, and spicy character compared to classic Turkish coffee, does not have a single, standard recipe. It can have different flavors depending on the region and the person preparing it. In some mixtures, cardamom is dominant, while in others, mastic gum or salep stands out. For this reason, when drinking Ottoman coffee, you may encounter different aromas under the same name. The common denominator is the tradition of brewing in a cezve and its spicy/aromatic profile.
The Difference Between Ottoman Coffee and Turkish Coffee
In Turkish coffee, finely ground coffee is prepared with water and optionally sugar in a cezve over low heat. Ottoman coffee essentially uses the same brewing method. The difference lies in the mixture. The additional ingredients added to Ottoman coffee significantly change the taste and smell in the cup. Due to this change, the bitterness of Ottoman coffee decreases and its aroma increases. In short, this coffee has a rounder taste.
Another difference is expectation management. In Turkish coffee, the expectation is to clearly feel its own character. In Ottoman coffee, the goal is to transform the aroma into a more special experience. While Turkish coffee attracts those who prefer classic flavors, Ottoman coffee is different but traditional.
What Does Ottoman Coffee Taste Like?
The taste of Ottoman coffee varies according to the coffee mixture. However, aromatic smells, a smooth drinking experience, and a long spicy finish come to the forefront.
Mixtures using cardamom leave a spicier and refreshing impression. Those with mastic gum have a distinct smell and a chewy sensation. In mixtures like carob and salep, the drink is sweeter and fuller-bodied.
For these reasons, Ottoman coffee is a great alternative, especially for those who say "Turkish coffee is too strong."
How is Ottoman Coffee Made?
The principle of preparing Ottoman coffee is the same as Turkish coffee. However, one detail needs to be mentioned. The "mastic gum or cardamom" options sold in ready-made packages are industrially prepared. Therefore, their aromas will not satisfy you, and there will be unnecessary bitterness and staleness.
If you want to prepare Ottoman coffee, the best method is to prefer specialty coffee and add the aroma (such as cardamom or mastic gum) externally. This way, you will also have the opportunity to adjust the aroma as you wish. Furthermore, preferring specialty coffee instead of industrial coffee directly affects taste, aroma, and freshness.
The preparation of Ottoman coffee is exactly like Turkish coffee. The coffee, mixed with water per cup, is brewed in a cezve over low heat. The difference lies in the products added to the coffee, such as cardamom or mastic gum. If you distribute it into cups when foam starts to form and heat the coffee for a short while longer, you will have a frothy Ottoman coffee.
There are two factors that affect the taste during preparation: the freshness of the mixture and the brewing time. If the water boils too quickly, the aroma will become harsh. If you wait too long, the bitterness of some spices may increase. Therefore, patient brewing and the use of fresh products make a difference.
If you are looking for a more aromatic and layered experience in a traditional cup, the answer to the question of what Ottoman coffee is lies exactly here. It is a special blend enriched with spices and aromas, preserving the tradition of Turkish coffee. By choosing specialty coffees among the Turkish coffee varieties available at Rumo, you can ideally create your own blend and prepare wonderful Ottoman coffees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Ottoman coffee contain?
The contents of Ottoman coffee vary depending on the mixture. Cardamom, mastic gum, carob, salep, and various spices are the most common.
Is Ottoman coffee brewed like Turkish coffee?
Yes, Ottoman coffee is brewed in a cezve over low heat, just like Turkish coffee. The difference comes from the coffee mixture.
What does Ottoman coffee taste like?
Ottoman coffee tastes spicy and aromatic. For this reason, it may appeal more to those who find Turkish coffee too strong.
