Ellinikós kafés (Greek Coffee)

We’ve all met friends for coffee- whether it be for studying, catching up, or brainstorming purposes, coffee shops are prime hotspots for productivity.

In Greece, coffee breaks are long and taken seriously- just like the coffee itself is.

There are two forms of cafés in Greece: kafeteria (modern larger cafés) or “kafeneio” (a traditional Greek café that has been standing for decades). Kafeterias tend to attract younger crowds (often transforming into bars at night) while the kafeneios attract older.

No matter which café you choose, both will serve standard Greek coffee.

Why greek coffee is so unique

Greek coffee is boiled rather than brewed. This boiling method was developed in Yemen during antiquity, long before filtration of coffee was introduced. Boiling coffee is also carried out in Turkey and throughout the Middle East. This method also creates a foam the Greeks call kaimaki (pronounced kaee-MAH-kee), which adds a rich, creaminess to the coffee. The process of boiling coffee extracts much more nutrients from the coffee beans than the filtering method.

Additionally, Greek coffee is comprised of Arabica coffee beans, which are ground down to a very fine powder, thus delivering more concentrated antioxidants per ounce than in a cup of regular coffee. The combination of boiling a fine grind gives Greek coffee a powerful, one-two health punch. Plus, you get less caffeine than in an American cup of coffee, so ounce for ounce it’s a healthier choice.

In Greece, coffee is typically consumed three to five times a day in small demitasse cups. In general, each cup contains just a little over 100 mg of caffeine, which equals the amount in about a cup and a half of American coffee.

Greek coffee is typically sipped slowly in social settings with family and friends, either around the kitchen table or in cafes. Part of the health benefits beyond the drink itself may also be connected to the leisurely pace of Greek life, which could also reduce overall stress, another boon for cardiovascular health. In addition, Greeks adhere to a Mediterranean diet, rich in fish, olive oil and plenty of fruits and vegetables, which also contributes to a healthy heart.

Greek Customs Surrounding Coffee

Fortune Telling

Does anyone else remember Harry Potter’s crazy Divination teacher, Professor Trelawney? She was the one who read fortunes in the tea leaves at the bottom of tea cups. Well anyway, although it is tea in the books, Trelawney practices a variation of a real Greek custom.

The grounds that form in the bottom of a cup of traditional Greek coffee has created a fascination with fortune telling in Greek society. There are even those who “read coffee” professionally!

As the custom goes, once you’ve finished your coffee you should swirl your cup around (so the sediment covers all sides of your cup), place the saucer on top of the cup and turn it over. Wait for a few moments as the grounds drain down the sides of your cup; then flip it back over. Now, someone else must look into your cup and interpret what they see.

From initials to rivers to a fork, many types of shapes and symbols can be interpreted. The bottom portion of the cup represents people or experiences from the past, the middle portion is dedicated to current goings-on in the present, and the top portion is reserved for what’s to come in the future.

“Pouring One Out”

Some Greeks believe that if they pour a little coffee out of their cup onto the ground that luck and money will find them.

Predicting the Weather

In Greek culture, it is believed that a cup of coffee has the ability to predict weather. If bubbles are present in the center of the cup, then pleasant weather is on the radar. Alternatively, if bubbles form on the edges, then the weather will be dark and grey- indicating either rain or snow in the forecast.

How to Brew Traditional Greek Coffee

Traditional Greek coffee is thick and strong, served with a heavy foam on top. It is prepared in a  "briki pot“ and served in a “half cup” with the grounds still present in the bottom. This beverage is meant to be enjoyed slowly, savoring every sip. If you are serving a large group, it is customary to also serve a glass of ice water to each person.

What you’ll need:

• Greek coffee
  
• A briki (comes in 2,4, or 6 cup sizes)
• Demitasse cup(s) (Small coffee Espresso cups)
  
• Cold water

Instructions:

1. Measure cold water in demitasse cup (which equals ~ 1/4 cup) and pour into briki.
2. This step requires some experimentation on your part, depending on your flavor and sweetness preferences. There are 4 standard ways to brew Greek coffee:
   • Unsweetened (sketos)- add 1 tsp. of coffee to the briki water
   • Semi-sweetened (metrios)- add 1 tsp. sugar to the 1 tsp. of coffee
   • Sweetened (glykos)- add 2 tsp. sugar to the 1 tsp. of coffee
   • Heavily Sweetened, Extra Strong (vary glykos)- add 3 tsp. sugar to 2 heaping tsp. coffee, stir to combine
3. Turn burner to medium low. Place the briki over the burner and stir coffee until it dissolves and then never again. Repeat: Do not stir again. Foam will start to rise very quickly in the briki before it comes to a boil.
4. Once foam reaches the top, remove the briki from heat and serve, evenly dividing the foam into cups before adding the coffee. Pour coffee carefully, disturbing the foam as little as possible.
5. Sip and enjoy!