Yes, poha can be prepped dry and soaked ahead of time. Store the soaked poha in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using it in your recipe.
Preparing poha in advance can be a great time-saver during busy weekdays. Here's how to do it effectively:
Measure the Poha: Determine the amount of poha you need for your recipe.
Rinse Thoroughly: Place the poha in a colander and rinse it under running water. This removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming too sticky.
Soak Briefly: Soak the rinsed poha in just enough water to cover it. The soaking time depends on the thickness of the poha. Thicker poha may require a slightly longer soaking time (2-3 minutes), while thinner poha needs only a quick dip (1 minute or less).
Drain Well: Immediately drain the soaked poha thoroughly using a colander. Gently fluff it with a fork to remove excess water.
Store Properly: Transfer the drained, soaked poha to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This prevents it from drying out or becoming overly mushy.
Use as Needed: When you're ready to cook, simply take out the pre-soaked poha and use it in your recipe as directed.
Avoid over-soaking the poha, as this will result in a mushy texture. The goal is to hydrate the poha just enough so that it's soft but still holds its shape. If you notice the poha is too dry after refrigeration, sprinkle a tiny amount of water on it and fluff it gently before using.