Turkish Tea
Ingredients:
- Turkish black tea leaves (preferably Rize or another high-quality variety)
- Water
- Sugar (optional)
- Turkish tea pot (çaydanlık)
- Turkish tea glasses (fincan)
Instructions:
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Start by filling the bottom kettle of the çaydanlık (Turkish tea pot) with cold water. The top pot is reserved for brewing the tea.
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Measure out the desired amount of tea leaves based on the number of cups you want to make. A general guideline is to use about one teaspoon of tea leaves per cup of water.
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Place the tea leaves into the top pot of the çaydanlık.
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Fill the top pot with cold water, ensuring that the water level is just below the rim of the pot. Do not overfill, as this can cause the tea to overflow during brewing.
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Assemble the çaydanlık by placing the top pot containing the tea leaves onto the bottom kettle filled with cold water.
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Place the çaydanlık on the stove over medium heat. Allow the water in the bottom kettle to come to a boil. As the water boils, the steam will rise and brew the tea in the top pot.
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Once the water reaches a rolling boil and the tea in the top pot is steeped to your desired strength, remove the çaydanlık from the heat. Be careful not to let the tea over-brew, as this can result in a bitter taste.
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To serve, pour the brewed tea into Turkish tea glasses, filling them only halfway to three-quarters full. This allows room for dilution with hot water if desired.
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If you prefer your tea sweetened, place a sugar cube or spoonful of sugar in the empty portion of the tea glass before pouring the hot tea. Alternatively, you can add sugar directly to the çaydanlık during brewing.
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Traditionally, Turkish tea is served piping hot. However, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can dilute the tea with hot water to your desired strength.
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Enjoy your Turkish tea alongside a glass of cold water as a palate cleanser between sips.
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Refill your tea glass as desired, and savor the rich flavor and cultural tradition of Turkish tea.
Note: Turkish tea is often enjoyed throughout the day and is a symbol of hospitality in Turkish culture. Adjust the strength and sweetness of the tea according to personal preference
