Your Cool Home is supported by its readers. Please assume all links are affiliate links. If you purchase something from one of our links, we make a small commission from Amazon. Thank you!
Almonds should be soaked in water because doing so makes them easier to digest, softer to chew, and better for your overall digestion.
Soaking almonds in water is a simple practice that many people swear by, and it turns out there are real reasons behind it.
If you’ve been wondering whether almonds should be soaked in water before eating, the short answer is yes—and it’s easier than you might think.
In this post, we’ll cover why almonds should be soaked in water, how long they should soak, and the best ways to do it so you get the most out of this crunchy little nut.
Let’s get into it.
Why Almonds Should Be Soaked in Water
Almonds should be soaked in water, and here’s why:
1. Soaking Makes Almonds Easier to Digest
The main reason almonds should be soaked in water is because soaking makes them much easier on your digestive system.
Almonds naturally contain tannins and phytic acid, which can make them harder to break down.
When you soak almonds in water, these compounds leach out into the water, leaving behind a nut that’s gentler on your stomach.
This is especially helpful if you’ve ever felt bloated or heavy after eating raw almonds.
2. The Skin Softens and Releases Its Compounds
Almond skins hold most of the tannins that give raw almonds their slightly bitter taste.
When almonds are soaked in water, the skin softens and those compounds release into the water.
That’s why soaked almonds taste milder and sweeter than dry ones.
Many people also slip the skins off after soaking, which makes the almonds even easier to chew and digest.
3. Nutrients Become More Available
Soaking almonds in water doesn’t just soften them—it also helps your body absorb their nutrients better.
Phytic acid, which is reduced during soaking, normally binds to minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc and stops your body from absorbing them fully.
By soaking almonds in water, you lower that phytic acid content and give your body a better shot at absorbing the good stuff.
4. It’s a Traditional Practice With Staying Power
Soaking almonds in water isn’t a new trend.
In many traditional cultures, particularly in South Asia, almonds are routinely soaked overnight before eating.
The practice has been passed down for generations because people noticed soaked almonds felt lighter and more refreshing to eat.
That kind of staying power is usually a good sign that soaking almonds in water actually does something worthwhile.
How Long Should Almonds Be Soaked in Water?
If almonds should be soaked in water, the next question is: for how long?
The sweet spot is usually between 8 and 12 hours.
Soaking almonds in water overnight covers this perfectly—just drop them in a bowl before bed and they’re ready by morning.
A minimum of 8 hours gives the almonds enough time to soften and release those tannins and phytic acid.
You can soak them longer, but beyond 12 hours they start to get mushy and lose their pleasant texture.
How to Soak Almonds in Water the Right Way
Start with raw almonds—roasted or salted ones won’t soak up water the same way.
Place them in a bowl and cover with at least two inches of clean water, since they’ll absorb some as they sit.
Add a pinch of salt if you like, which some people find helps the soaking process.
Cover the bowl and leave it on the counter overnight, or pop it in the fridge if your kitchen runs warm.
Rinse Well Before Eating
Once the almonds have soaked in water long enough, drain and rinse them thoroughly under fresh running water.
This washes away the tannins, phytic acid, and any bitterness that leached out during soaking.
If you want to remove the skins, they should slip off easily between your fingers after soaking.
Pat the almonds dry and they’re ready to eat, or store them in the fridge for a few days.
Common Mistakes When Soaking Almonds in Water
Soaking almonds in water is simple, but a few missteps can ruin the results.
1. Skipping the Rinse
The whole point of soaking almonds in water is to draw out tannins and phytic acid.
If you skip rinsing, those compounds stay right on the almond and you lose most of the benefit.
Always rinse soaked almonds under fresh water before eating them.
2. Soaking for Too Long
More isn’t always better when it comes to soaking almonds in water.
Past 12 hours, almonds turn soft and mushy, and they can even start to ferment if left out too long.
Stick to the 8 to 12 hour window for the best texture and flavor.
3. Using the Wrong Almonds
Roasted, salted, or flavored almonds won’t soak properly because their outer layer has been altered.
Always use raw almonds when soaking almonds in water so the water can actually penetrate the skin.
So, Should Almonds Be Soaked in Water?
Almonds should be soaked in water because soaking makes them easier to digest, softer to chew, and better for absorbing their nutrients.
The tannins and phytic acid that make raw almonds tough on your stomach leach out into the water, leaving a milder, gentler nut.
Soak raw almonds in water for 8 to 12 hours, rinse them well, and enjoy them refreshed and ready to eat.
Hope this post has helped you understand why almonds should be soaked in water and how to do it the right way.