If you're a coffee lover, you've likely heard of both espresso and Turkish coffee. While both are strong, aromatic brews, they differ greatly in how they’re prepared, served, and experienced. Whether you're new to specialty coffee or looking to deepen your understanding, this guide will help you discover the key differences between espresso and Turkish coffee from grind size and brewing methods to cultural significance and taste profiles.
What is Espresso?
Espresso is a strong and small cup of coffee. It is made by pushing extremly hot water through fine coffee powder using high pressure. This gives a rich taste and a creamy layer on top, called crema. People drink espresso in small cups, and it is used to make other drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas. In places like Italy, drinking espresso is a daily habit and part of their culture.
What is Turkish Coffee?
Turkish coffee is one of the most ancient and culturally rich methods of preparing coffee. It’s made by slowly simmering ultra-fine coffee grounds similar to the texture of flour in a small long-handled pot known as a cezve. Since no filter is used during brewing, the grounds settle at the bottom of the cup on their own. This traditional technique creates a thick, flavorful brew meant to be savored slowly.
Want to learn more about Turkish coffee’s history and preparation? Read our full guide here:
What is Turkish Coffee? Everything You Need to Know About the Iconic Brew
Difference between Turkish Coffee vs Espresso
Feature |
Espresso |
Turkish Coffee |
Grind Size |
Fine |
Ultra-fine (like flour) |
Brewing Method |
High pressure (espresso machine) |
Simmered in a cezve |
Filtered |
Yes |
No (grounds settle at the bottom) |
Taste |
Bold, intense, slightly bitter |
Earthy, smooth, sometimes slightly sweet |
Caffeine |
Higher per shot (30-50mg) |
Slightly less, but depends on amount served |
Brewing Time |
25–30 seconds |
5–7 minutes (slow, meditative process) |
Serving Size |
30ml |
60–90ml (with foam on top) |
Which One Is Stronger?
Espresso has more caffeine in each small amount because it is very strong. But Turkish coffee is not filtered and is usually drunk in bigger cups, so some people feel it is just as strong or even stronger than espresso.
Cultural and Experiential Differences
While espresso is fast, modern, and perfect for on-the-go lifestyles, Turkish coffee is slow, ceremonial, and perfect for long conversations. The two drinks cater to different coffee cultures, but both celebrate the art of brewing in their own unique ways.
Why Choose Auro Coffee?
Auro – The Best Coffee Bean Supplier in UAE (Retail + Wholesale)
At Auro, we are proud to be the best choice for high-quality coffee beans in the UAE. Whether you make coffee at home, run a café, or serve coffee in a restaurant, we have the right beans for you especially for making real Turkish coffee..
- High-quality single-origin beans
- Ideal roasts for Turkish coffee and espresso
- Retail and bulk wholesale options
- Fast delivery across the UAE
- Trusted by coffee professionals and enthusiasts
Types of Turkish Coffee Beans You Can Try
At Auro Coffee, we offer a handpicked collection of premium beans perfect for brewing Turkish coffee. Here are three types of coffee that add special taste and richness to every cup.
- Southern Flower Natural: Naturally processed beans with floral and fruity notes. Ideal for Turkish coffee lovers who enjoy a vibrant and smooth profile.
- Tarara: A balanced cup with notes of stone fruit and spice.
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Choco Roast: With bold chocolate and nutty undertones, this roast is perfect for those who prefer a rich, full-bodied Turkish brew.
Explore our full range of coffee beans here
Each of these coffees has been curated to enhance your Turkish coffee ritual whether you’re brewing at home or serving it at your café.
FAQS
Q1. What is the key difference between espresso and Turkish coffee?
Espresso is pressure-brewed and filtered, while Turkish coffee is simmered and unfiltered with ultra-fine grounds. Each has a unique taste and method.
Q2. Is Turkish coffee stronger than espresso?
Espresso has more caffeine per ounce, but Turkish coffee can feel stronger due to its unfiltered texture and rich brew style.
Q3. Can I use espresso beans for Turkish coffee?
Not ideally. Turkish coffee requires specific ultra-fine grind and beans that suit slow brewing, like Auro’s Southern Flower Natural.
Q4. Which coffee beans have more caffeine, Turkish or espresso?
Espresso usually has more caffeine per ounce, but Turkish coffee may have more per cup depending on prepartion and bean type.