Traditional Turkish coffee is brewed using an ibrik (also called a cezve), producing a strong, unfiltered, thick coffee with fine grounds suspended in the cup. But many coffee lovers wonder whether they can recreate this style using a French press instead of a traditional pot. The short answer is: you cannot make authentic Turkish coffee in a french press, but you can make a Turkish-style strong brew that comes close in flavor intensity.

Why a french press Cannot Make True Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee is defined by its preparation technique, not just its strength.

Turkish Coffee Uses Ultra-Fine Powdered Grounds

These grounds are almost like cocoa powder.

A French Press Filter Cannot Hold Ultra-Fine Grounds

The mesh filter allows fine powder to pass through, clogging the filter and muddying the drink.

Turkish Coffee Requires Boiling the Grounds Directly in Water

The ibrik method heats coffee and foam together until it rises.

A French Press Uses Steeping, Not Boiling

It cannot create the signature foam (“köpük”) on top.

But You CAN Make a Strong, Turkish-Style Coffee in a French Press

Although not authentic, you can brew a bold, concentrated coffee inspired by Turkish intensity.

Step 1: Use Finer Grounds Than Usual

But not as fine as true Turkish powder.

Recommended Grind Level: Fine-to-medium

This increases strength without clogging the filter.

Step 2: Use a High Coffee-to-Water Ratio

Turkish coffee is strong, so increase concentration.

Suggested Ratio:

• 1:8 coffee-to-water for a bold brew

• Normal French press is 1:12–1:15

Step 3: Add Optional Flavorings

Turkish coffee often includes spices.

Popular Additions:

• a pinch of cardamom

• a drop of rose water (for Middle Eastern style)

Step 4: Steep for 3–4 Minutes

Avoid over-extraction, which produces bitterness.

Press Down Slowly to Reduce Sediment

Gentle pressure gives a smoother cup.

Flavor Differences: French Press Turkish-Style vs Authentic Turkish Coffee

Tips for Better Turkish-Style Coffee in a French Press

Use Freshly Ground Beans

Aromatic oils intensify the “Turkish” flavor profile.

Choose Middle Eastern or Dark Roast Blends

These deliver the boldness Turkish coffee is known for.

Preheat the French Press

Keeps brewing temperature stable.

Temperature Stability = Better Extraction

Metal or borosilicate-glass presses perform best.

Pour Slowly to Avoid Excess Sediment

Fine grounds may slip through the filter.

Use a Secondary Filter if Needed

A paper filter over your mug helps clarify the brew.

When You Should Use a French Press — and When You Should Not

Use a French Press If:

• You want a strong, bold, concentrated coffee

• You want a “Turkish-inspired” flavor without special equipment

• You prefer minimal cleanup

This Works Well for Home, Office, Travel, and Outdoor Brewing

Use a Real Turkish Ibrik If:

• You want traditional texture and foam

• You enjoy ultra-fine grounds

• You want authentic presentation and flavor

• You brew Turkish coffee for cultural or ceremonial reasons

An ibrik remains the only method for 100% authentic Turkish coffee

Conclusion

You cannot make true Turkish coffee in a French press because the brewing method, foam, and ultra-fine grounds require an ibrik. However, you can make a strong, bold, Turkish-style coffee using a French press by adjusting grind size, increasing coffee ratio, and adding traditional spices.

For coffee lovers who want a rich and intense cup without special equipment, a sturdy, well-designed French press is more than capable of delivering a satisfying Turkish-style brew for daily use.