How to make Greek Coffee

Why cooks start here

Greek Coffee is cooked the way every Greek kitchen cooks it — olive oil used without counting, salt judged by hand, and lemon always within reach. This is the home version, written down the way a Greek family cook actually puts it on the table.

Greek Coffee, or 'Ellinikos Kafes,' is a staple in Greek households, brewed daily with the same reverence and familiarity as a family recipe. This version captures the essence of a typical Greek home, where coffee is more than just a beverage—it's a moment of pause and reflection. Typically enjoyed in the morning or after a meal, this coffee is an integral part of Greek life, often shared over conversations that stretch into the afternoon. The taste is robust and earthy, with a slightly creamy texture, thanks to the fine grounds left to settle at the bottom of the cup. The coffee is brewed slowly in a briki pot, allowing its flavors to fully develop. Adjusting the sugar to your liking, you can experience the full spectrum of its taste, from a rich bitterness to a subtle sweetness. Serve it in a demitasse cup, and let it transport you to a sun-drenched Greek veranda.