Shisha, also known as hookah, is a popular pastime not only in its birthplace of the Middle East but around the globe, including here in Toronto, Ontario. Preparing shisha at home can be a fantastic way to unwind, entertain guests, or immerse yourself in the rich cultural history from which it originates. But to truly appreciate a shisha session, understanding its main components is key. A standard shisha setup consists of the hookah pipe, a base filled with water, a bowl for holding the flavoured tobacco, a tray for the charcoal, and a hose from which to inhale.
Choosing Your Shisha Flavour
One of the delights of a shisha session is the vast array of flavours available, from the fruity tang of apple and strawberry to the exotic allure of jasmine or rose. Shisha Mart offers an extensive selection of high-quality flavours, allowing you to tailor your shisha experience to your palate. Be sure to store your shisha tobacco in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and flavour intensity.
Preparing the Shisha Bowl
The first step in preparing your shisha at home involves setting up your bowl. Fill it up to about three-quarters with your chosen shisha tobacco, gently spreading it to allow for proper air circulation. This ensures an even burn and helps you avoid a harsh, unpleasant smoke. Once your shisha is in place, cover the bowl with a piece of foil. Make sure it’s taut, then pierce several small holes into it, enabling heat to pass through.
Managing Your Charcoal
Heat is crucial in a shisha session, and this is where your charcoal comes in. Lighting the charcoal can take a few minutes, so it’s a good idea to do this as you prepare your shisha bowl. Once your charcoal is glowing hot, use tongs to place it on the foil of your shisha bowl. It’s vital to manage your heat source correctly – too hot, and your shisha can burn, too cool, and you won’t get enough smoke.
Perfecting the Water Level
The water in your shisha base serves two purposes – it cools the smoke and acts as a seal for your hookah, preventing air from escaping. As a rule, the bottom one inch (2.5 cm) of your stem should be submerged in the water. Too much water will make inhaling difficult, while too little will lead to harsh, hot smoke.
Attaching the Hose and Starting Your Session
With your shisha bowl prepared, charcoal managed, and water level perfected, it’s time to attach your hose. Ensure it fits snugly into its port on your hookah stem to maintain the air seal. Now, inhale gently through the hose. You should see smoke bubbling through the water in your base and making its way up the hose.
Enjoying and Maintaining Your Shisha
A well-prepared shisha can offer hours of relaxation and enjoyment. Remember to inhale gently and savour the unique flavours. Part of a great shisha session is maintaining the experience, so be prepared to manage your charcoal throughout, moving it around to avoid burning your shisha.
Shisha Mart: Your Partner in the Perfect Shisha Session
Achieving a relaxing shisha session at home is a step-by-step process, but with practice and quality equipment, it can be a breeze. Shisha Mart stands ready to provide you with top-quality shisha flavours, hookahs, and accessories for your perfect shisha experience at home. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned shisha enthusiast, we’re here to make every session an enjoyable journey of flavours and relaxation.
