Leftovers
How long does Cooked Dal (toor / moong) last?
Medium confidence
Safety concern
How long does Cooked Dal (toor / moong) last? fridge 3–4 days, freezer 3 months. Plus spoilage signs, sources, and an unopened-vs-opened note.
Fridge
3–4 days
Pantry
Refrigerate only
Freezer
3 months
Sealed / unopened: N/A
Signs Cooked Dal (toor / moong) has gone bad
- Sour or fermented smell instead of a savoury aroma.
- Slimy or stringy texture, or a thick skin with bubbles underneath.
- Visible mold or fizzing when stirred.
Discard immediately if
- Past 4 days in the fridge
- Any sour or off smell
- Bubbling, fizzing, or visible mold
Why guidance varies
Cooked lentils are a moist, low-acid, high-protein food in the bacterial danger zone, so safe time depends on how fast it was cooled, container depth, and steady fridge temperature. Tempering (tadka) doesn't extend safety.
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Sources for this answer
- A USDA FSIS — Leftovers and Food Safety — Cooked foods keep 3–4 days refrigerated and 2–6 months frozen.
- C Cookd — Storing Leftovers — Indian curries and gravies keep up to 3 days refrigerated and ~3 months frozen.