Greek coffee and Turkish coffee are the same. Both are traditionally brewed over a flame. In Greece, households have small camping gas cylinders and the coffee is made in a long-handled metal container. You have to be patient with this type of coffee. It is necessary to watch it carefully so that it does not boil over. The trick is to knock the coffee out of the flame just beforehand. Then you need to lower the heat and put the coffee back on the flame. Let it simmer and remove just before it boils over. It’s served in small cups and the sediment stays at the bottom – unless you like eating coffee grounds. Sugar is added to the pot with the coffee and stirred in.
Greeks can spend hours in a cafe over just one coffee. They do not add milk to this type of coffee. It is believed that brewed Greek coffee can boost metabolism
Some scientists believe that a daily cup of Greek coffee is the secret to longevity. Greek coffee is packed with polyphenols and antioxidants and has only a moderate amount of caffeine compared to other types of coffee. Of course, food also plays a role in a healthy Mediterranean diet.
The Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest in the world, with olive oil used in cooking and salads. Many Greeks grow olives and have them pressed for them, so many families have their own supply of virgin or extra virgin olive oil. Olives are also part of the Greek diet and are even on the breakfast table.
Most people eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day, and these are thoroughly washed and cleaned, so herbicides and pesticides are more or less eliminated. Many people, especially those living in villages, grow their own produce and use natural fertilizer excreted by their animals. The Greek diet is very healthy.
Greeks also drink wine with their meals and some of it is homemade. Many Greeks grow their own grapes there.
It is hardly surprising that people in the western world live longer than others. Meat is fresher, as are fruits and vegetables.
Greek coffee is just one of the components of the Mediterranean diet and is usually consumed in small amounts on a daily basis. The Greeks seem to believe in moderation.
Thanks to Lynne Evans
