Menengiç kahvesi – Turkish caffeine-free coffee from wild pistachios Recipe
Menengiç kahvesi is a coffee-like drink made from roasted fruits of wild pistachios, traditionally popular in southeastern Turkey. It has a nutty, slightly caramel flavor and is naturally caffeine-free, so it is also enjoyed in the evening. At home you can recreate this atmosphere using menengiç paste or a mix of coffee with nut paste, served in small cups like classic Turkish coffee.
Menengiç kahvesi offers the ritual and aroma of Turkish coffee without any caffeine, thanks to roasted wild pistachios instead of coffee beans. It’s a traditional specialty from southeastern Turkey with a naturally nutty, caramel note and a creamy texture.
Chef's tips
Stir constantly while heating so the paste dissolves evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom. Adjust the amount of paste to your taste – more paste gives a thicker, more intense drink. If you like a sweeter profile, dissolve the sugar thoroughly so it doesn’t settle at the bottom of the cup.
How to serve
Serve in small espresso or Turkish coffee cups, ideally on a small saucer with a glass of water on the side. It pairs well with Turkish sweets such as baklava, kadayif or simple butter cookies. Offer it after a meal as a gentle, caffeine-free alternative to espresso.
Ingredients
- menengiç paste ready-made wild pistachio paste, available in Turkish grocery stores - 2 teaspoons
- milk cow’s or plant-based - 250 ml
- water for thinning the drink - 50 ml
- sugar or to taste, can be omitted - 1 teaspoon
- ground cinnamon optional, for sprinkling - 1 pinch
Preparation
- Pour the milk and water into a small saucepan or cezve.
- Add the menengiç paste and sugar, if using.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly with a small whisk or spoon, until the paste is completely dissolved and a delicate foam appears on the surface. Do not bring to a rolling boil – the drink should be very hot but not boiling over.
- When the drink starts to steam lightly and rise around the edges, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Pour the menengiç kahvesi into small cups. If you like, sprinkle the top with a pinch of cinnamon and serve immediately.
Storage
No storage information available for this dish.
This is a great way to bring a bit of Turkish café atmosphere into your home, especially if you love the ritual of coffee but want to avoid caffeine in the evening. The nutty aroma of menengiç paste makes the drink feel indulgent even though it’s very simple to prepare.
