How Long to Soak Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal)

Complete soaking guide with times, water ratio, and tips.

Recommended Soaking Time

2 hours

Range: 1-3 hours

Water Ratio

1 part toor dal to 3 parts water

Overnight OK?

Not recommended

Method

Rinse toor dal 2-3 times until water is no longer cloudy. If using oily toor dal, wash extra to remove the oil coating. Soak for 1-2 hours.

Signs of Ready

Dal grains look plumper and feel softer. They begin to lose their glossy, hard appearance.

Tips

Soaking toor dal is optional but reduces cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
Rinse oily toor dal with warm water to remove the oil coating.
The most commonly used dal in Indian sambar and rasam.

Cooking After Soaking

Method	Cooking Time
pressure cooker	8-10 minutes (2-3 whistles)
stovetop	20-30 minutes on medium heat
instant pot	6-8 minutes on high pressure with natural release

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I soak Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal)?

Soak Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal) for 1-3 hours. The recommended soaking time is 2 hours for best results.

Can I soak Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal) overnight?

Overnight soaking is not recommended for Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal). Stick to the 1-3 hour range for best texture and results.

What is the water ratio for soaking Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal)?

Use a 1 part toor dal to 3 parts water ratio when soaking Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal). Make sure all pieces are fully submerged.

How do I know when Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal) is done soaking?

Dal grains look plumper and feel softer. They begin to lose their glossy, hard appearance.

Can I use hot water to soak Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal)?

It is best to use room temperature or cold water for Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas / Arhar Dal). Hot water can affect the texture and may cause uneven soaking.

Method

Signs of Ready

Tips

Cooking After Soaking

Frequently Asked Questions

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