Bakhoor Al Abaq
What is Bakhoor and how does it work?
Bakhoor is wood chips that have been soaked in perfume oil
and are mixed with other (natural) ingredients, such as natural resin, sandalwood, and essentials oils. It comes in many different varieties, which means there’s
a type of bakhoor for everyone. Bakhoor is especially popular in the Middle
East.
You burn bakhoor the same way you burn natural resin
incense. A quick-light charcoal tab in a mabkhara – a traditional bakhoor
burner – is the best way to burn bakhoor. First, you light the charcoal tab
with a lighter or match (make sure to do so on a fire-proof surface). Once the
charcoal is fully lit, it will glow red and it will be covered in greyish
soot. Use a pair of tongs to place the tab in the mabkhara and carefully
sprinkle some bakhoor on top of the tab. The bakhoor’s oils will evaporate
thanks to the heat of the charcoal tab, releasing exotic, aromatic, and rich
fragrances.
In most cases, bakhoor is used during special occasions such
as weddings, or simply for relaxing purposes. In Arabian culture, it’s a
traditional gesture to pass bakhoor among guests, so they can scent their hair,
clothing, and hands. This is believed to be as integral to hospitality as
serving coffee and dates.
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