Greek Coffee
Greek coffee is one of our most favorite habits. Its aroma, its taste, and the stimulation it offers are known all over the world. On Mount Athos, Greek coffee is one of the basic elements of the daily life of the monks. It is drunk at all times of the day, but is especially popular in the morning, after the end of the Divine Liturgy.
It is also one of the basic elements of hospitality on Mount Athos. The monks offer their visitors Greek coffee, along with raki and traditional loukoumi, as a way of welcome and friendship.
Although there is disagreement between countries about its origin and it is called by a different name in each country, this coffee is considered the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Turkey according to UNESCO. In Turkey it is "Turkish", in Greece "Greek", in Armenia "Armenian" and in Arabia "Arab".
How they drink Greek coffee on Mount Athos.
Greek coffee on Mount Athos is prepared in the traditional way, in a coffee copper or bronze cezve, briki in Greek. The water is boiled over low heat and then the coffee is added. Sugar is added to taste depending on everyone's preference.
The monks of Mount Athos drink Greek coffee with great love and passion. The ritual of preparing and drinking coffee is a moment of relaxation and connection.
In a bronze cezve or coffee potter, pour the water and put it over low heat.
When the water starts to heat up, add the coffee.
Mix well and lower the heat even more.
Let the coffee boil for about 2 minutes, without letting the water boil.
Once the coffee froths up, remove the cezve from the heat and let the coffee sit for 1 minute.
Pour the coffee into the cups and add sugar to taste.
Use freshly ground coffee for the best flavor.
Don't let the water boil, as this will make your coffee bitter.
Let the coffee sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the coffee particles to dissolve properly.
