There’s nothing quite as simple yet satisfying as a fluffy bowl of perfectly cooked rice. If you’re wondering how to cook rice in an Instant Pot pressure cooker with ease and consistency, you’re in the right place! This cooking method is fast, mess-free, and eliminates the guesswork of cooking rice on a stovetop. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the kitchen, the Instant Pot proves to be a game-changer for anyone who loves cooking rice without the risk of burning or undercooking it.

The Instant Pot pressure cooker is undoubtedly a multitasking powerhouse in the kitchen. Unlike traditional cooking methods, it works by trapping steam under high pressure, making food cook faster and retain more of its nutrients. Cooking rice in an Instant Pot has several advantages:

  • Consistent results every time evenly cooked rice with the ideal texture.
  • Hands-off cooking no need to watch the pot or adjust heat levels.
  • Time-saving the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process significantly.
  • Versatility from white rice to brown rice, jasmine to basmati, the Instant Pot handles them all.

If you’re looking for detailed guides on cooking various grains, check out how to cook red lentils in a rice cooker. It’s another great resource for using modern cookware!

how to cook rice in instant pot pressure cooker

What Youll Need Before You Start

Before learning how to cook rice in an Instant Pot pressure cooker, gather the following ingredients and tools for seamless preparation:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of rice (white, jasmine, basmati, or brown rice)
  • 1 to 1.25 cups of water (adjust the liquid depending on the rice type)
  • A pinch of salt (optional)

Essential Tools:

  • Instant Pot pressure cooker
  • Rice cooker for measuring rice
  • Cutting board (even if no chopping is required, wooden boards are a kitchen essential!)
  • A fine-mesh sieve for rinsing the rice

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Rice in an Instant Pot Pressure Cooker

Follow these detailed steps for restaurant-style rice that is fluffy, separate, and perfectly cooked every single time:

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Always rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking. This step washes off excess starch, which can make the cooked rice sticky. Place your rice in a fine-mesh sieve under cold running water and rinse until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Measure the Ingredients

Use the correct water-to-rice ratio for the type of rice youre preparing. Here’s a cheat sheet:

  • For white rice: 1 cup of rice to 1 cup of water.
  • For brown rice: 1 cup of rice to 1.25 cups of water.
  • For jasmine and basmati rice: 1 cup of rice to 1 cup of water + a splash extra for softer consistency.

Slight adjustments to the water level can help tailor the rice texture to your preference.

Step 3: Add Rice and Water to the Instant Pot

Transfer the rinsed rice into the Instant Pots stainless steel inner pot. Add the water and salt (if desired). Stir gently to distribute the grains evenly in the water.

Step 4: Seal the Lid and Set the Timer

Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and turn the valve to the Sealing position. On the control panel, select the Pressure Cook or Manual setting, and adjust the time according to the rice type:

  • White rice: 4 minutes at high pressure.
  • Brown rice: 22 minutes at high pressure.
  • Jasmine or basmati rice: 6 minutes at high pressure.

The appliance will take about 5-10 minutes to build pressure before the cooking timer begins.

Step 5: Natural Release

Once the cooking cycle ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This step lets the steam settle gradually, avoiding sudden moisture loss that could impact the rice texture.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Open the lid carefully, using a fork to fluff the rice gently. Avoid over-stirring, as it may break the grains. Serve your rice warm, and pair it with your favorite dishes!

Looking for more side dish ideas? Check out how to cook rice in a Cosori Pressure Cooker to experiment with new methods!

Expert Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Rice

Even though the Instant Pot simplifies the process, here are some pro tips to absolutely nail your rice game:

  • Use fresh, high-quality rice for the best flavor and texture.
  • Always ensure the sealing ring on the Instant Pot lid is properly in place to prevent steam leaks.
  • If unsure about the water-to-rice ratio, start with slightly less water. You can always adjust on your next batch.

For more cooking hacks like these, dont miss how to cook white rice in a rice cooker, which offers additional insights.

how to cook rice in instant pot pressure cooker

Cleaning Your Instant Pot and Other Tools

Caring for your kitchen equipment ensures longevity and continued performance. After cooking, wash the Instant Pots inner pot with a cookware cleaner. Further, maintain your wooden tools, such as cutting boards, with cutting board oil to extend their life.

This guide on how to cook rice in an Instant Pot pressure cooker is perfect for busy people seeking a simple and foolproof way to enjoy perfectly cooked rice every time. If youre ready to elevate your cooking skills, grab those tools (*and indulge in flavorful meals!).

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