Ellinikós

By Jacqui Brown

Greek coffee, also known as ellinikos kafes, is a traditional coffee drink that has been enjoyed in Greece for centuries It is strong, rich, and aromatic coffee brewed using finely ground coffee beans and served in a small cup

The Greek tradition of serving coffee is rooted in a rich history, with coffeehouses playing an important role in Greek society since the Ottoman Empire During this time, coffeehouses were important social and cultural gathering places, where people would come together to discuss politics, literature, and philosophy over a cup of coffee

Today, coffeehouses and cafes are still an essential part of Greek culture, with people of all ages coming together to enjoy coffee, conversation, and entertainment In many cities and towns throughout Greece, coffeehouses and cafes are open late into the night, providing a place for people to gather and socialise

The process of serving Greek coffee is steeped in tradition and ceremony, with many coffeehouses and cafes using special brewing methods and equipment Typically brewed in a briki, a small copper or brass pot with a long handle, which is placed on a hot plate or stove to heat the water

Once the water is heated, the coffee is added to the briki and stirred, creating a frothy, creamy texture The coffee is then poured into a small cup and served with a sweet pastry and a glass of water In addition to the traditional method of brewing coffee, many coffeehouses and cafes in Greece also offer modern brewing methods, such as espresso and cappuccino However, the tradition of serving Greek coffee remains an important part of Greek culture, with many coffeehouses and cafes still serving the traditional style of coffee.

The tradition of serving coffee has had a significant impact on global coffee culture, with the milder, sweeter flavour of Greek coffee becoming popular in many countries around the world The popularity of Greek coffee has also led to the development of new styles of coffee, such as frappé, a foamy iced coffee that originated in Greece

In conclusion, the Greek tradition of serving coffee is an essential part of Greek culture, with coffeehouses and cafes playing a central role in social and cultural life The tradition of serving Greek coffee is steeped in history and ceremony, with many coffeehouses and cafes using special brewing methods and equipment to create the perfect cup of coffee While modern brewing methods have become popular in Greece and around the world, the tradition of serving Greek coffee remains an important part of culture and continues to influence coffee culture around the world