Venizelo's Greek Coffee Recipe
Make Venizelo's Greek Coffee Recipe in just 8m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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For the coffee (per serving)
For serving
Tools
Method
Prepare ingredients
- 1
Measure 2 tsp finely ground Greek/Turkish coffee and place into the briki. Add sugar according to taste (use 0 tsp for unsweetened, 1 tsp for medium sweetness, 2 tsp for sweet). Add a pinch of ground cardamom if using.
- 2
Pour 3 oz cold water into the briki over the coffee and sugar. Do not stir yet; placing the water on top helps dissolve gradually when you stir.
Mix and heat
- 3
Combine
Using a small spoon, gently stir the mixture until sugar and coffee are fully integrated and the grounds are suspended. Ensure no lumps remain. This creates the characteristic foam (kaimaki) later.
- 4
Heat slowly
Place the briki on very low heat. Heat slowly—this is crucial. Do not stir again after placing on the heat. Watch the surface closely as the coffee begins to warm; warming should take 3–5 minutes depending on heat and briki size.
- 5
Form foam
As the coffee warms, a dark crema (foam) will form along the rim and center. When the foam rises and is about to spill (forming a dome), remove the briki from heat. This first rise preserves aroma and foam.
- 6
Optional second rise
If you prefer a stronger cup or more foam, let the briki settle 10–15 seconds off heat and then return to low heat to allow a second gentle rise. Remove just before it boils over.
Serve
- 7
Pour slowly into the demitasse cup, aiming to distribute the foam evenly between cups if making multiple servings. Pour from a slightly elevated position to preserve foam on top.
- 8
Set a small glass with 1 oz cold water next to the cup for the traditional palate cleanse. Let the grounds settle to the bottom of the cup for 1–2 minutes before sipping—Greek coffee is not filtered.
- 9
Enjoy small sips. Do not drink the remaining grounds at the very bottom; discard once finished. If sugar levels or cardamom are not to your taste, adjust next preparation accordingly.