National Dish Cyprus: Kafes (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Kafes, the traditional coffee of Cyprus that turns a simple cup into a moment worth savouring. Brewed slowly in a little copper pot and served in small cups, it carries an intense, fragrant aroma that draws people together. More than a caffeine hit, kafes is a cornerstone of Cypriot hospitality — a drink to be shared with friends and family over unhurried conversation. Bring a taste of the island’s warm, sociable spirit into your own kitchen.
About Kafes
Kafes is a Cypriot coffee drink that fascinates as much for the way it is made as for its flavour. This traditional preparation is deeply rooted in Cyprus and is often enjoyed in convivial company. Its intense aroma and the freedom to refine it with different spices make it a real treat. This coffee is more than just a drink; it is a symbol of Cypriot culture and hospitality, poured out generously whenever guests arrive.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 cups water
- 2–3 teaspoons coffee (dark roast, finely ground)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (optional)
- Cinnamon or other spices, to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
To brew the perfect kafes, it is important to choose the right ingredients. Greek or Turkish coffee is ideal, as it is very finely ground and delivers the intense flavour that kafes needs. When buying your coffee, pay attention to the roast; dark roasts are especially recommended. If you would like to add spices, pick up fresh cinnamon or other aromatic spices to enhance the experience.
Preparing the dish
Preparing kafes is simple and takes only a few steps. Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients to hand on the worktop before you begin. When it comes to equipment, a traditional briki — a small long-handled coffee pot — or a similar coffee maker is recommended, as it helps release the full aroma. The right technique is key to enjoying kafes at its best.
Step-by-step instructions
- Pour the water into the briki and set it over the heat.
- Add the coffee and stir to combine.
- If you like, add the sugar and spices.
- Heat the mixture slowly until it just begins to simmer.
- Remove the briki from the heat before the coffee boils over.
- Serve the kafes in small cups and sip it slowly.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
The good news is that kafes is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free. The ingredients used in its preparation are mainly water and coffee, so there is nothing to worry about here. This makes kafes a great choice for anyone with specific dietary needs. You can adjust the coffee entirely to your own taste without any concern over allergic reactions.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Kafes is naturally vegan and vegetarian, as no animal products are required in its preparation. This makes it an ideal drink for anyone following a plant-based diet. If you prefer, you can add a plant-based milk alternative for a creamier texture without losing the classic character of the coffee. In this way kafes can be adapted in many directions to suit a range of tastes.
More tips and tricks
To get the most out of your kafes, we recommend heating the water gently rather than rushing it. A slow, even heat helps extract the best flavour. Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or cloves to discover interesting variations. Serving it alongside a traditional Cypriot sweet, such as Soutzouk Loukou, rounds off the whole experience beautifully.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Making kafes offers plenty of room for personal adjustment. Vary the amount of sugar to tune the sweetness to your own liking. The strength of the coffee can be adjusted too, so everyone can find their perfect cup. By adding different spices you can also shape the aromas to taste, creating a drink that is entirely your own.
Ingredient substitutions
If you fancy making kafes a little differently, there are many alternatives to the traditional ingredients. Instead of sugar, you can use honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetness. You might also experiment with decaffeinated coffee beans if you want to reduce the caffeine content. This flexibility lets you create a kafes exactly to your wishes.
Drink pairing ideas
Several drinks pair nicely with kafes to round off the experience. A traditional Cypriot zivania or ouzo can make an interesting accompaniment and is perfect for sociable hours. A simple glass of water is also refreshing and helps balance the intense coffee flavour. For a sweeter finish, enjoy it with a spoonful of preserved fruit such as Glyko Tou Koutaliou for a new dimension of taste.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of kafes can turn coffee time into something special. Use stylish coffee cups and think about a pretty garnish, such as fresh mint leaves or a cinnamon stick. Serve small pastries that go well with kafes, like Cypriot Loukoumades, to complete the picture. A nicely laid table creates an inviting atmosphere for your guests.
A bit of history
Kafes has a long history that is deeply rooted in Cypriot culture. It is thought to have been inspired by the tradition of Turkish coffee, yet over the years it has developed into a speciality of its own. The making and enjoyment of kafes are central to the Cypriot way of life and to its famous hospitality — a hallmark of Cypriot cuisine. It is customary to serve kafes with friends and family in convivial company, which only strengthens the social side of the drink.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Kafes
Kafes is a unique and traditional Cypriot coffee that impresses with its distinctive aroma and its time-honoured method of preparation. The simplicity of making it and the scope for individual variation make it a gift for every coffee lover. This delicious creation brings together flavour and tradition while also creating unforgettable moments of togetherness. Give kafes a try and discover the Cypriot way of life for yourself!
