Is it safe to soak chana overnight with baking soda?
ChanaSoakingBasics
I've heard people add a pinch of baking soda when soaking chanay overnight. Is it actually safe? How much is too much? And do I cook them in the same soaked water?
1 answer
Kia Pakaun Kitchen · 1 November 2026
Yes, a small pinch is safe and it helps chanay soften faster. Use about a quarter teaspoon for one cup of dry chanay; more than that can make them mushy, give a soapy taste, and reduce some vitamins. In the morning, throw away the soaking water, rinse the chanay well, and cook them in fresh water. If your chanay are fresh, you often don't need soda at all, just a good overnight soak. Great for this: Chana Masala recipe