Skip to main content

How Long to Soak Dried Figs (Anjeer)

Soak dried figs for 2-4 hours in warm water until they become soft and plump - you can feel the difference when you squeeze one. Cold water works but takes 6-8 hours. The soaking water turns sweet and slightly golden - it is drinkable and some people have a glass of it on an empty stomach as a morning ritual. For baking, chop after soaking when they are soft; trying to dice dry figs is an exercise in frustration.

By the CookTimeGuide Editorial TeamKitchen-tested Jan 2026

Recommended Soaking Time

8 hours

Range: 4-12 hours

Water Ratio

1 part dried figs to 2 parts water or milk

Overnight OK?

Yes, safe overnight

Method

Place dried figs in a bowl and cover with water or milk. Soak overnight in the refrigerator for the best results. You can also soak in warm water for 2-3 hours for faster hydration.

Signs of Ready

Figs are plump, soft, and juicy. They should feel tender when squeezed and have expanded significantly.

Tips

  • Drink the soaking water (or milk) as well, since nutrients leach into it.
  • Soaked anjeer with warm milk is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for digestion.
  • 2-3 soaked figs in the morning is a common practice for better gut health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I soak Dried Figs (Anjeer)?

8 hours is the sweet spot for dried figs (anjeer) (range: 4-12 hours). Under-soaking leads to uneven cooking, and you will know it is ready when figs are plump, soft, and juicy. they should feel tender when squeezed and have expanded significantly.

Can I soak Dried Figs (Anjeer) overnight?

Yes. Overnight soaking (8-12 hours) works well for dried figs (anjeer) and is the most practical approach if you plan to cook them the next day.

What is the water ratio for soaking Dried Figs (Anjeer)?

Use 1 part dried figs to 2 parts water or milk (water to dried figs (anjeer)). Dried Figs (Anjeer) expands during soaking, so start with a bowl at least twice the volume of the dry product to avoid overflow.

How do I know when Dried Figs (Anjeer) is done soaking?

Figs are plump, soft, and juicy. They should feel tender when squeezed and have expanded significantly. If you are unsure, cut one in half - the inside should be uniform in color with no dry, opaque core.

Can I use hot water to soak Dried Figs (Anjeer)?

Cold or room-temperature water only for dried figs (anjeer). Hot water partially cooks the outside while the inside stays dry, resulting in a mushy exterior and hard center.

More Cooking Times You May Need

Almonds (Badam)8-12 hrsWalnuts (Akhrot)4-8 hrsCashews (Kaju)2-4 hrs