Bosnian Coffee
We love drinking Bosnian coffee! Travel is a great way of learning about new food and drink and, for us, Bosnian coffee is one of our greatest discoveries.
Each country we visit brings new restaurants, cafes and bars to try out and with that, new foods and traditions. Although there are many variations of these dishes across the Balkan region, it is fun to try to recreate them from home.
A Bosnian coffee is a great way to start the day. Coffee in Bosnia, bosanska kafa, is a true source of pride and identity to Bosnians as they have a long tradition of coffee drinking. It was first brought over by the Ottomans nearly 500 years ago and has remained popular ever since. It is a central focus of regular social interactions and many a discussion, or argument, has been had while working through a pot of coffee.
Not to be confused with Turkish coffee
Although similar to Turkish coffee, they are not to be confused. The difference is subtle and is only really evident in how the coffee is prepared. Bosnian coffee is made by adding ground coffee into already boiled water, while Turkish coffee is prepared by cooking the coffee and water together until they boil.
So, what makes Bosnian coffee special? It is dark, exceptionally strong, similar to an extreme espresso, and has a subtle, chocolate flavour. Sugar can be added to taste. It is usually served with a glass of cold water and a portion of Rahat lokum, which is similar to Turkish Delight.
Just don’t be tempted to drink it to the very last drop! The coffee isn’t filtered so there is a thick, sandy texture that will sink to the bottom of the cup.
Fortunately, this coffee is nice and easy to make at home and can be enjoyed throughout the day. Although we wouldn’t recommend drinking it too close to bedtime!
Bosnian Coffee Recipe
To make 2 cups of Bosnian coffee, you will need the following:
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of finely ground coffee
- 2 and 1/2 cups of water
- 1 coffee pot or dzezva (see copper pot below). You could also use a small milk pan or there are many places to buy dzezva online – try HERE.
- Optional to serve with sugar or Turkish delight
Follow these 6 instructions for a deliciously strong Bosnian coffee:
- Boil the water separately and place the coffee into the coffee pot/dzezva.
- Once the water has boiled, pour it into the coffee pot and mix it well.
- Put the coffee pot on the hob for several seconds, making sure it doesn’t boil over. When you see the coffee rising to the top of the pot, just before it spills over, remove the pot from the hob and let it settle for a few seconds.
- Add some more boiling water to the pot, mix the coffee again and place the pot back on the hob. When it’s close to boiling again, remove it from the hob.
- Repeat steps 3 or 4 once or twice. The aim is to create a smooth creama on the top.
- When serving, spoon off the top layer and add a little to each cup. Then pour in the rest of the coffee. The creama will then rise to the top of the cup.
Enjoy a small taste of Bosnia from your home with this easy, tasty coffee. A cup of coffee offered in Bosnia is often an invitation to come in, chat and socialize with friends and family for hours. So get some friends together and give it a go.
What next?
Inspired by Balkan food and drink? Take a look at our other posts HERE and try a few of the delicious recipes.
Maybe you’re thinking of a trip to the Balkans to try the real thing? Check out our Balkan FAQs page for loads of information on the area.
Have you tried this recipe at home or in the Balkans? Let us know by dropping a comment in the box. We would love to hear from you!
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