A Guide to Selecting Hookah Charcoal
Hookah charcoal is mainly used for producing smoke from shisha tobaccos. Hookah charcoal is trendy amongst shisha smokers as it cooks the shisha tobacco to produce smoke. It’s safe to note that hookah charcoals are made by different brands, giving you a wide range of options to choose from. If you smoke shisha, then there are some important things you need to know about hookah charcoal. If you want to buy hookah charcoal, you may also need Hookah Bowls, Hookah Hoses and Hookahs.
When the charcoals are lit, they are then placed underneath your shisha tobacco. After the placement, your shisha tobacco starts producing smoke. This makes it easier for you to cook your shisha without wasting much time. However, before buying your hookah charcoal, there are some factors you have to consider.
Factors to consider before buying a hookah charcoal
Charcoal types: there are different hookah charcoal types, leaving you with some charcoal brands to choose from. One of the known hookah charcoal is the quick light hookah charcoal. These hookah charcoals burn very fast, being aided by a chemical accelerant. The problem with the quick lighting is the change in taste and smell of the smoke. Many shisha smokers prefer natural hookah charcoal because they believe it preserves the shisha smell. Natural hookah charcoals burn slower, taking more time than quick light charcoals.
Shape: hookah charcoals come in different shapes, and you can buy any charcoal that suits your taste. The shapes don’t determine the taste or smell of the shisha smoke, but you can decide to pick a preference for personal reasons. Hookah charcoals come in flats, hexagons, and cubes. Hookah charcoal shapes are primarily determined by the brand you are buying from.
Ash level: another factor is the ash level you want for your hookah charcoal. While some people love ashes after cooking their shisha tobaccos, others prefer a low ash level. You can easily pick one that suits your preference by keeping up with hookah charcoal reviews online.
Benefits of hookah charcoal
Heat: hookah charcoal helps cook the shisha tobacco, allowing it to produce smoke loved by shisha enthusiasts. It's a faster way to get your smoke ready for events, parties, and private use. In addition, the heat helps shisha flavors come out stronger and better.
Preservation: the hookah charcoal helps preserve the taste and smell of the smoke. Shisha with flavors is easily enjoyed when shisha enthusiasts cook their shisha tobacco with hookah charcoal. Hookah charcoal for shisha is growing popular due to increasing demands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can hookah charcoal be used to cook flavored shisha?
Yes, you can use hookah charcoal for different shisha types. It’s excellent for flavored and unflavored shisha tobaccos.
Is hookah charcoal reusable?
Yes, hookah charcoal is reusable. However, to best enjoy your shisha smoke, you should always use new ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What charcoal is used for hookah?
Cubed coconut charcoal is commonly used for hookah. It is 100% natural, without any chemicals or additives. Cubed coconut charcoal lights quickly and burns evenly, providing a consistent smoking experience.
2. Can you use regular grill charcoal for hookah?
Regular grill charcoal should not be used for hookah. It needs to be charcoal specifically made for hookah. Lighting methods may also differ, such as using an electric coil hotplate.
3. Why won't my hookah coals stay lit?
Hookah coals may not stay lit due to a lack of oxygen. If the coals are tightly covered with foil or deprived of oxygen for a long time, they may stop burning. It's important to ensure proper airflow to maintain the burning of the coals.
4. Do I need coal for my hookah?
Yes, coal is necessary for hookah smoking. Coconut shell charcoal is a popular choice. It is placed on top of the hookah bowl, covered with a metal bulkhead or aluminum foil.
5. How many coals should I put on my hookah?
The number of coals needed for hookah smoking can vary. Generally, two coals are enough for a comfortable smoking session lasting 40-50 minutes. However, certain factors like the type of bowl used may require more coals.
6. Are coconut coals better for hookah?
Yes, coconut charcoal briquettes are preferred for hookah. They produce less ash and smoke compared to traditional charcoal, resulting in a cleaner smoking experience and better-tasting tobacco.
7. How long should hookah coals heat up?
Hookah coals should be fully lit before smoking. This is indicated by a light layer of ash and a glowing red/orange appearance. Coconut coals typically take around 8-12 minutes to fully light, depending on their size.
8. Why do my coals keep burning out?
If the dampers are closed, the charcoal won't receive enough air, causing it to burn out. It's important to ensure sufficient airflow by partially opening the dampers once the charcoal is white-hot and food is added.
9. What to do with coals when done with hookah?
Once the hookah coals are burnt out, they can be extinguished with water and disposed of with normal household waste or organic waste. Alternatively, they can be used as fertilizer for gardens when they are no longer glowing.
