Making fluffy rice has never been easier, thanks to the Instant Pot. With this appliance, you can achieve perfect rice with minimal effort and consistent results, regardless of whether you’re cooking white, basmati, jasmine, or brown rice. This process is not only convenient but also hands-free.
In this article, we’ll provide you with an easy guide on how to make perfect rice using the Instant Pot rice setting. With these simple steps, you’ll have delicious, well-cooked rice to pair with your favorite dishes in no time.
Key Takeaways
Achieve perfect rice in the Instant Pot with minimal measuring
Follow simple directions for white, basmati, jasmine, and brown rice
Learn how to use the Instant Pot rice setting effectively
Water to Rice: Ratio
When cooking rice in an Instant Pot, using a 1:1 ratio for water and rice is ideal. This means you need to add 1 cup of water for every 1 cup of rice, whether it’s white rice, brown rice, wild rice, jasmine rice, basmati, or long-grain. The Instant Pot is more sealed compared to regular cooking pots, so less water evaporates during cooking, making the 1:1 ratio perfect for achieving fluffy and well-cooked rice.
How to Make It
Begin by rinsing your rice until the water runs clear. Next, combine the oil, rinsed rice, water, and salt in your Instant Pot. Secure the lid and ensure the steam valve is sealed. Cook white rice for 4-8 minutes, adjusting for your specific Instant Pot model. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork, and it’s ready to be enjoyed with your favorite dish.
Utilizing the Instant Pot’s Rice Feature
When cooking white rice, simply press the RICE button on your Instant Pot. For other rice varieties, follow the provided timing chart while maintaining the same water-to-rice ratio. Enjoy your expertly cooked rice with a friendly, easy-to-use function!
How to Properly Cook Rice in an Instant Pot
When cooking various types of rice in an Instant Pot, keep these approximate cooking times in mind:
White Rice: 4-8 minutes
Brown Rice: 22-24 minutes
Jasmine Rice: 4-8 minutes
Basmati Rice: 4-8 minutes
Wild Rice: 25-30 minutes
Remember to factor in an additional 20 minutes, as it takes around 10 minutes for the Instant Pot to build pressure and another 10 minutes for natural pressure release. Using the high pressure setting and allowing the natural release process will yield fluffy and consistently cooked rice.
Helpful Hints for Perfecting Your Recipe
To make sure your rice turns out light and fluffy, take the time to rinse the rice thoroughly under water until it runs clear. This step removes any excess starch and prevents clumping.
Add a teaspoon of oil (such as olive oil or any other oil you prefer) per cup of rice to prevent sticking and reduce foaming. This trick will keep your Instant Pot mess-free and ensure your rice comes out great.
Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt per cup of rice while cooking, as this will enhance the rice’s natural flavors.
If you’re looking to boost the taste and nutritional value of your rice, consider using broth instead of water. Create some delicious options like parmesan broth, Instant Pot bone broth, or slow cooker bone broth using leftover parmesan rinds, meat bones, and veggie scraps. Your rice dish will love the extra depth of flavor.
Remember to use a fine mesh strainer when rinsing rice to make sure you’re removing as much extra starch as possible. The result will be perfectly cooked, separate grains that your taste buds will thank you for. Enjoy!
How Much Rice Can I Cook in My Instant Pot?
Depending on the capacity of your Instant Pot, the maximum amount of dry rice you can cook varies. For a 6-Quart Instant Pot, you can cook up to 4 cups of dry rice. This will yield roughly 12 cups of cooked rice. If you have an 8-Quart Instant Pot, it’s possible to cook up to 6 cups of dry rice, resulting in around 18 cups of cooked rice. Keep in mind that the water to rice ratio (1:1) and cooking time won’t change, regardless of the amount of rice you’re cooking. This method is faster than stovetop or microwave cooking, and the results are comparable to using a dedicated rice cooker.
Storing & Reheating
To store your leftover rice, allow it to cool down to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you’d like to freeze the rice, transfer the cooled rice to a freezer-friendly bag or container and keep it frozen for up to 4-5 months.
When it’s time to reheat your rice, thaw it in the fridge if it’s frozen. If the rice appears dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water and use your microwave to warm it up in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the rice is hot and fluffy.
Inspiring Ways to Enjoy Your Dish
Enhance your meals with these outstanding pairings featuring rice, served either steaming hot or delightfully chilled:
Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear.
Add oil to the Instant Pot, followed by the rinsed (damp) rice, water, and salt.
Lock the lid and set the steam valve to the “sealing” position. Choose the “RICE” button (for white rice) or consult the cooking chart below. Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure. Fluff rice with a fork and serve.
Handy Hints
Cooking Durations:
White, Jasmine & Basmati Rice: 4-8 minutes
Brown Rice: 22-24 minutes
Wild Rice: 25-30 minutes
Suggestion: Utilize the recipe card to modify the number of servings you need. The water-to-rice ratio (1:1) and cook time remain the same, regardless of the rice quantity.
How long does it take to cook rice in Instant Pot? It usually takes around 10-12 minutes for white rice and 20-22 minutes for brown rice, depending on the type and brand.
Instant Pot Settings for Rice
What should I set my Instant Pot to for cooking rice? Use the “Rice” setting for white rice, and the “Multigrain” setting for brown rice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Brown Rice in Instant Pot
How can I cook brown rice properly in my Instant Pot? Make sure to rinse the brown rice thoroughly, then use a 1:1.25 water-to-rice ratio. Select the “Multigrain” setting and set the timer for 20-22 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.
Ideal Water-to-Rice Ratio
What’s the best water-to-rice ratio for cooking rice in Instant Pot? For white rice, a 1:1 ratio works well. For brown rice, a 1:1.25 ratio is ideal. Adjust as needed depending on the specific type of rice and personal preferences.
Cooking Long Grain White Rice
How should I prepare long grain white rice in my Instant Pot? Rinse the rice thoroughly, use a 1:1 water-to-rice ratio, and select the “Rice” setting. Cook for 10-12 minutes and quick release the pressure.
Adjusting Cooking Time for Different Quantities
How can I adjust the cooking time for various rice quantities in my Instant Pot? Generally, you don’t need to adjust the cooking time when cooking smaller or larger amounts of rice. Just make sure to use the correct water-to-rice ratio, and the Instant Pot will do the rest.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
