Preparing an effective Hookah for your next gathering can take time for a beginner. If you skim over this process, you may build a dissatisfying and ashy Hookah setup that will disappoint your guests.
How can you be sure your station is living up to the correct standards? This quick and easy guide will give you all you need to know about preparing a simple and efficient Hookah.
1. Hookah Base And Water
You need to follow a series of steps to ensure you have the proper setup. First off, you’ll need the right equipment to ensure your setup is correct. Before reviewing our Hookah Setup Guide, you’ll need the following pieces of equipment:
- A Pipe
- A Pair of Tongs
- Extended Hose
- Phunnel Bowl
- Desired Tabacco
- Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil (or equally protective material)
- Coal Burner
- Foil
- Heat Management Device
- Poker
- Favored Charcoal
Before packing, make sure your materials are thoroughly clean, dry, and ready to use. Once the equipment is clear, fill your base with medium-temperature or distilled water.
You can chill your water, but base water that is too cold will tend to dilute the flavor of your tobacco.
2. Connecting the Hookah Stem to The Base
Your Hookah stem should have no detached or cracked parts so that air can flow smoothly through the connector. If you notice cracks or dents, it may be time to replace your pipe.
3. Prepping The Coal
The coal tray sits directly underneath the bowl and is used to catch support coals and ash, which in turn are used to heat the tobacco. This smoke will flow and accumulate at the base of the Hookah.
Then, you can funnel it through the hoses for you and your guests to smoke.
Coal purchased should only be used for the sole purpose of tobacco burning. There are a variety of coal options for various types of burning, including:
- Quick-Light Coals
- Crescent Coals
- Standard-issue Cube Coals
Reheat the coals before placing them on top of the coal tray. This can be done using a simple stove-top setup or a blowtorch. Electric burners are recommended for safely lighting coals.
Once you pack your bowl, the tongs will allow you to move hot coals.
4. Packing The Bowl
Bowls usually come packaged with your Hookah purchase. Make sure to fit the bowl atop the stem snuggly. If they are loose, you can purchase heat-resistant grommets to help keep the bowl flush with the stem.
If you haven’t secured a heat management device, cover the ceramic bowl in aluminum foil with punctured holes to protect it from the burning coals.
You must then stir your tobacco so that the juices are evenly distributed.
Hookah Preparation Steps:
- Heat 3-8 coals on your burner
- Add the tobacco into the bowl pack, using your fingers or a fork to distribute.
- Fill the base with water 1-2 inches above the aforementioned stem.
- Place the bowl on top of the stem.
- Make sure the bowl and ashtray are securely attached in place.
- Attach the HMD atop the bowl or wrap aluminum foil around it with evenly spaced holes, allowing airflow.
- Place coals on the HMD unit or the foil wrap.
- Let the coals burn for 1-3 minutes, heating your tobacco.
- Use the attached hoses to pull out smoke, but do NOT inhale the tobacco.
- Using tongs, replenish coals after they break apart.
Prep Your Hookah the Traditional Way
A tasty hookah will always be a cozy treat that will help welcome guests to your home for any gathering. Before you share, always make sure that your setup is secure to help enrich the taste.
Visit our site today to improve your Hookah setup!
