How to Soak Anjeer (Dry Figs) and How Many to Eat Per Day
How to Soak Anjeer & How Many Per Day
Soft, sweet Afghani figs for your morning routine – the easy overnight method.
NUTTB | nuttb.com | Healthy Snacks from Kerala
Short answer: Rinse 2–3 dry figs (anjeer), cover them with about half a cup of clean drinking water, and soak overnight for 6–8 hours (or 2–3 hours in warm water if you are short on time). Eat the soft figs in the morning, and you can drink the mildly sweet soaking water too. For most healthy adults, 2–3 anjeer a day is a sensible amount.
Key takeaways
- Anjeer is the Hindi/Urdu name for dried fig; in Malayalam it is often called athipazham (അതിപ്പഴം).
- Overnight soaking (6–8 hours) makes figs softer, juicier and easier to chew.
- 2–3 figs a day is a good everyday portion for adults; 1–2 for children.
- Soak in the fridge during hot Kerala days so the water doesn't turn sour.
- Dry anjeer stays best in an airtight jar, in the fridge during monsoon.
Why soak anjeer?
Dried figs are naturally chewy and dense, and their thousands of tiny seeds give a gentle crunch. Soaking does three simple things:
- Softens the texture – easier for children and elders to chew.
- Makes them feel lighter – many people find soaked figs more comfortable to eat first thing in the morning.
- Brings out sweetness – the soaking water picks up a mild natural sweetness you can drink or use in smoothies.
Soaking doesn't magically add nutrients – anjeer is already a good source of natural fibre and minerals. It simply makes figs more pleasant to eat every day.
How to soak anjeer: step by step
- Pick your figs: take 2–3 Afghani anjeer per person.
- Rinse: wash quickly under running water to remove surface dust.
- Cut (optional): slice each fig in half so water reaches the centre faster.
- Soak: place in a clean glass or steel bowl and cover with about half a cup of drinking water.
- Cover and rest: leave overnight for 6–8 hours. In hot weather, keep the bowl in the fridge.
- Eat in the morning: enjoy the figs on their own, with 4–5 soaked almonds, or chopped into oats or curd.
- Use the water: drink it, or add it to a smoothie or milkshake.
Soaked vs dry anjeer
| Point | Soaked anjeer | Dry anjeer |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Soft, plump, juicy | Chewy and dense |
| Best time | Morning, with breakfast | Snack time, travel, lunch box |
| Who prefers it | Kids, elders, sensitive stomachs | Busy people on the go |
| Recipes | Smoothies, fig milk, halwa, kheer | Stuffed figs, energy bites, trail mix |
| Shelf life | Eat the same day | Months in an airtight jar |
How many anjeer per day?
- Adults: 2–3 figs a day is a sensible everyday amount.
- Children (above 3 years): 1–2 soaked figs, chopped small.
- Active days / winter: you might enjoy 3–4 as part of breakfast, but balance with your other sweet foods.
Figs are naturally sweet, so if you are managing blood sugar or have been advised to watch natural sugars, check with your doctor or dietitian about the right amount for you. Eating too many in one go can also feel heavy on the stomach because of the fibre.
Easy ways to enjoy soaked anjeer
- Anjeer milk: blend 2 soaked figs with a cup of warm milk and a pinch of cardamom.
- Breakfast bowl: chop over oats, ragi porridge or curd with a few walnuts.
- Smoothie: banana + 2 soaked figs + soaking water + a spoon of chia seeds.
- Fig and almond plate: 2 soaked figs with 4–5 peeled soaked almonds.
Storage tips for humid Kerala weather
- Keep dry figs in an airtight glass jar, away from the stove and sunlight.
- In monsoon or very humid months, store the jar in the fridge to prevent stickiness and mould.
- A light white powder on figs is often natural fruit sugar coming to the surface – but fuzzy spots, sour smell or webbing mean discard.
- Always use a dry spoon or clean hands.
- Don't keep soaked figs overnight a second time – eat them the same day.
From the Nuttb pantry
Nuttb Premium Afghani Dry Fig (Anjeer)
Soft, chewy and naturally sweet Afghani figs – perfect for overnight soaking.
Shop on nuttb.com – from ₹400
Nuttb Premium Almond – Handpicked Whole Badam
Soak a few alongside your anjeer for a classic morning pair.
Shop on nuttb.com – from ₹420
Nuttb Premium Chia Seeds
Add a spoon to your fig smoothie or overnight oats.
Shop on nuttb.com – from ₹168Frequently asked questions
How long should I soak anjeer?
Soak dry figs for 6–8 hours or overnight. If you are short on time, 2–3 hours in warm water also softens them.
How many soaked anjeer can I eat per day?
For most healthy adults, 2–3 figs a day is a sensible amount. Children can have 1–2, chopped small.
Can I drink anjeer soaking water?
Yes. If you used clean drinking water and a clean bowl, the mildly sweet soaking water can be drunk or added to smoothies.
What is the best time to eat soaked anjeer?
Most people enjoy soaked figs in the morning with breakfast, but you can eat them at any convenient time.
What is anjeer called in Malayalam?
Dried fig is commonly called athipazham in Malayalam and anjeer in Hindi.
Should I soak anjeer in the fridge?
In hot, humid weather it is a good idea, so the water stays fresh overnight.
Keep reading on the Nuttb blog
- Soaked Almonds vs Raw Almonds: How Many Per Day?
- Best Dry Fruits for Winter: Anjeer, Walnuts, Dates & Honey Nuts
This article shares general food information, not medical advice. If you are managing blood sugar, pregnancy or any health condition, please consult your doctor or a qualified dietitian. Always check the current pack label for ingredients and best-before details.
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