To use bakhoor, heat a piece of charcoal (or switch on an electric bakhoor burner), wait until it glows with a light layer of ash, then place one or two small pieces of bakhoor on top. The bakhoor releases fragrant smoke that you can let drift through the room or use to scent clothes and hair.
What you need
Bakhoor, a bakhoor burner (mabkhara) and either quick-light charcoal tablets or an electric burner. Electric burners are simpler and cleaner; charcoal gives the most traditional result.
Step by step with charcoal
Hold the charcoal with tongs and light it until it sparks, then place it in the burner bowl. Wait a few minutes until it is glowing and lightly covered in grey ash. Add a small piece of bakhoor. When the scent fades, add another piece.
Scenting clothes and hair
Hold clothes, a scarf or an abaya a short distance above the smoke for a few seconds, or let the smoke rise around your hair. The scent lingers in fabric for a long time.
Safety
Always set the burner on a heat-proof surface, away from curtains, children and pets. Keep the room ventilated and never leave charcoal burning unattended.
Questions people ask
How long does bakhoor last?
A piece burns for a few minutes, but the scent stays in a room for hours and in fabric for days.
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Written by the Ayyub Ali Fragrances family, perfumers in Hyderabad since 1986.