This guide provides a clear, 3-step explanation of how to use the super-convenient Lotus and Silicone Top.
- Pack the flavor
- Set up the coals
- Get the smoke going
Managing the flavor and coals is often the most tedious part of preparing shisha. The "Lotus" and "Silicone Top" are convenient tools that make this process incredibly easy.
Simple instructional video (2 minutes)
This video clearly explains and covers all the content of this article.
First, as basic knowledge, we will explain the Lotus and Silicone Top.
What is the Lotus?
It is a type of heat management tool that regulates the heat of charcoal. You place charcoal inside and cover it with a lid that has an adjustable window, allowing for convenient heat control.
What is a Silicone Top (or Silicone Bowl)?
It is a silicone container for holding shisha flavor. The bowl part where the flavor is placed is usually made of glass. Normally, aluminum foil is used with a regular top, but with this product, since the Lotus is placed on top, aluminum foil is not needed.
Right now, we recommend the affordable Lotus and Silicone Top set.
◾️How to use the Lotus and Silicone Top (Steps 1-3 explained)
Step 1: Pack the flavor
The amount of flavor varies depending on the size of the top, but typically, a silicone top requires about 10g.
- For a silicone top, 10g is the appropriate amount.
【Tip】You don't need aluminum foil as you'll be placing the Lotus on top later.
- Place the Lotus on top of the bowl and wait for the coals.
【Tip】When placing the Lotus, make sure the flavor below does not touch the bottom of the Lotus. (Otherwise, the smoke will taste burnt).
Step 2: Set up the coals
Prepare the coals to be placed on top of the bowl.
- The coals are ready when the center is red and the surface is white.
*We recommend using an electric stove to light the coals.
An electric stove is recommended for safely lighting coals at home.
【Important】How to place coals and preheat
【Tip】Place the coals so they don't block the narrow holes on the edge of the Lotus.
Place three coals facing each other, then put the Lotus lid on.
Leave the lid's air vent half-open for 7 minutes to preheat the flavor.
After 7 minutes, remove one coal, leaving two. Close the lid and set the air vent to half-open, then proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Get the smoke going
After the preheating process, continue to inhale until rich smoke and flavor are produced, then it's ready.
To enjoy delicious shisha.
- If the charcoal smoke is too strong: The heat is too high, so reduce the number of coals to lower the temperature.
(First, try opening the air vents on the Lotus or removing the lid to observe.)
- If no smoke is produced: The heat is too low, so add more coals to increase the temperature.
(First, try closing the air vents on the Lotus to observe.)
Frequently asked questions: Difference from Turkish Lids
The Turkish Lid is often compared as another type of heat management device. There's no superiority or inferiority in the quality of shisha; you can use whichever you prefer. However, for beginners, the Lotus and Silicone Top are easier to handle.
*Silicone tops come in different sizes and cannot be used with Turkish Lids.
