How to place coals on a hookah?

Correct placement of coals on a hookah is a key step in preparing for the perfect smoking experience. This affects the evenness of tobacco heating, the richness of flavor, and the absence of unpleasant bitterness. Even the most expensive tobacco and high-quality hookah won't reach their potential if the coals are placed incorrectly. In this article, we will cover all the nuances: from selection and ignition to optimal placement on the bowl.

Preparing the coals: selection and basics

Before placing the coals, you need to choose and prepare them correctly. The optimal choice is coconut coals. They burn for a long time, provide stable heat, and are almost odorless. Wood charcoal or quick-heating tablets are used less often (they are easier to use but can add an aftertaste). The standard cube size is 22x22x22 mm or 25x25x25 mm. Important: never use coals with additives (for grills) as they are toxic!

How to ignite hookah coals?

Proper ignition is the key to good heating. Follow these steps:

1. Use an electric stove or gas burner. An open flame (lighter, matches) is not suitable as the coal will heat unevenly.
2. Place the coals on the edge of the heat source. The contact area should be maximized.
3. Wait for complete heating. The coal is ready when it is uniformly heated to red (80-90% of the surface) and covered with a thin layer of white ash. This usually takes 5-10 minutes on an electric stove.
4. Don't rush! Underheated coals give weak heat and quickly go out, while overburned ones burn out quickly and can spoil the tobacco.

Technique for placing coals on a hookah

After ignition, it is important to place the coals correctly on the bowl. The method depends on the type of "lid" used.

Classic method: on foil

This method requires care:

1. Cool the coals for 20-30 seconds on the stove grate or a metal surface (to remove excess heat).
2. Arrange the coals along the edge of the bowl. The standard arrangement for a round bowl:
   • 2 coals: opposite each other (180°).
   • 3 coals: in a triangle (120° apart).
   • 4 coals: in a square (90°).
3. Do not place coals in the center! This is a direct path to overheating and bitter smoke.
4. Maintain distance. The coals should slightly extend beyond the edge of the bowl (by 1/3) and not touch each other. Use tongs for precise placement.
5. Adjust the heat. If the smoke is harsh, move the coals further to the edge or remove one. If there is little smoke, move them closer to the center or add a coal.

Using a kaloud (HMS)

A kaloud (Heat Management System) simplifies temperature control:

1. Heat the kaloud. Place the heated coals inside the lid for 1-2 minutes before placing it on the bowl.
2. Distribute the coals evenly along the bottom of the kaloud. Avoid "piles" as the heat should be even.
3. Use the lid. It creates an "oven" effect, allowing you to reduce the number of coals (often 2 instead of 3 on foil are enough). Open/close the lid to adjust the temperature.

Tips for the perfect result

Small tricks will improve the quality of smoking:

• Rotate the coals every 10-15 minutes with a fresh side down for even burning.
• Blow off the ash before turning to prevent it from getting into the tobacco.
• Start small. It's better to add coal later than to "burn" the bowl in the first few minutes.
• Use foil of the right thickness. Optimal is 2 layers of standard foil or 1 layer of thick foil (40 microns).
• Clean the kaloud. Soot on the walls worsens thermal conductivity.

By mastering the technique of placing coals, you will turn the process of preparing a hookah into an art. Remember: even heating and timely adjustment are the keys to thick, tasty smoke without bitterness. Practice, experiment with the number and placement of coals, and your hookah will always be top-notch!