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How to Cook Rice in Instant Pot
🥄 Introduction: How to Cook Rice in Instant Pot (Perfect Every Time)
How to cook rice in Instant Pot is a game-changer for anyone craving fluffy, tender rice without the mess. Whether you’re prepping a quick weeknight dinner or batch cooking for the week, this method is creamy-soft on the inside, gently firm on the outside, and entirely hands-off.
My Instant Pot transformed my kitchen routine—and rice was the first thing I mastered. I used to burn rice on the stovetop or end up with mushy grains. Sound familiar? This recipe delivers perfect rice every time—no guesswork, no clumpy mess.
Plus, this method works for white rice, jasmine, basmati, and even brown rice, with just minor tweaks (see variations below!).
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Foolproof – No more burned or soggy rice.
- ⏱ Ready in 30 minutes (with pressure time).
- 🧽 Minimal cleanup – Just one pot.
- 🍱 Great for meal prep – Store for the week.
- ❄️ Freezer-friendly – Make extra and save it.
- 🍚 Versatile base – Works with stir-fries, curries, burritos & more!

🛒 Ingredients
Here’s what you need to cook fluffy white rice in your Instant Pot:
- 2 cups white rice (long grain, jasmine, or basmati)
- 2 cups water (1:1 ratio)
👉 For firmer rice: use 1 ¾ cups water
👉 For softer rice: use 2 ¼ cups water - 1 tablespoon oil or butter (optional – helps prevent sticking)
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional but enhances flavor)
👩🍳 See our guide on how to rinse rice properly for best texture.
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Cook Rice in Instant Pot
🧼 Phase 1: Prep the Rice
- Rinse the rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer for 1-2 minutes until the water runs clear.
- Drain thoroughly to prevent soggy rice.

🔥 Phase 2: Set Up & Cook
- Add rinsed rice, water, oil or butter, and salt to the Instant Pot.
- Lock the lid and set valve to Sealing.
- Select the Pressure Cook (High) setting:
- White rice: 4 minutes
- Jasmine rice: 4 minutes
- Basmati rice: 5 minutes
- Brown rice: 22–24 minutes
- Let the pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes after cooking.
- Carefully switch valve to Venting to release remaining steam.
🥄 Phase 3: Fluff & Serve
- Open the lid and fluff rice with a fork.
- Serve hot or let cool for meal prep!

🔧 Pro Tips & Easy Variations
✅ Expert Tips
- Don’t skip rinsing – It prevents sticky, clumpy rice.
- Natural release matters – It finishes cooking and keeps texture perfect.
- Add flavor boosters – Swap water for broth or coconut milk for more depth.
🔁 Variations
- Low-carb: Try cauliflower rice in the Instant Pot (low time & liquid).
- Dairy-free: Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter.
- Spicy twist: Add 1 tsp chili flakes and ½ tsp turmeric before cooking.
- Add-ins: Stir in peas, corn, or cooked lentils after cooking.

🍛 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair your perfectly cooked rice with:
👉 You might also like:
🧊 Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Fridge: Store rice in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in zip bags or containers (flat) for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave with a damp paper towel or warm in a skillet with a splash of water.
🧾 Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 205
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 0.4g
- Sodium: 118mg
- Sugar: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
📝 Disclaimer: Values are estimates and vary by ingredients.
❓ FAQ – How to Cook Rice in Instant Pot
1. Can I skip rinsing the rice?
It’s not recommended. Rinsing removes starch that causes clumping.
2. Why is my rice mushy?
You may have added too much water or didn’t drain well after rinsing.
3. How do I store leftover rice safely?
Cool completely, store in airtight container, and refrigerate up to 5 days.
4. What if my Instant Pot doesn’t have a “Rice” button?
No problem! Use the Pressure Cook (High) setting and follow the times above.
5. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just double the rice and water. Cooking time remains the same.
How to Cook Rice in Instant Pot – 30-Minute Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 20–25 mins
- Yield: Servings: 4
Description
How to cook rice in Instant Pot is a game-changer for anyone craving fluffy, tender rice without the mess. Whether you’re prepping a quick weeknight dinner or batch cooking for the week, this method is creamy-soft on the inside, gently firm on the outside, and entirely hands-off.
Ingredients
-
2 cups white rice
-
2 cups water
-
1 tbsp oil or butter (optional)
-
-
½ tsp salt (optional)
Instructions
-
Rinse rice thoroughly and drain.
-
Add rice, water, oil, and salt to Instant Pot.
-
Lock lid and set to “Sealing.”
-
Pressure Cook on High: 4–5 mins depending on rice type.
-
Natural release for 10 mins, then vent.
-
Fluff and serve.
Notes
-
Rinse rice thoroughly and drain.
-
Add rice, water, oil, and salt to Instant Pot.
-
Lock lid and set to “Sealing.”
-
Pressure Cook on High: 4–5 mins depending on rice type.
-
Natural release for 10 mins, then vent.
-
Fluff and serve.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 4 mins
External Resources
External Links (DoFollow):
💬 Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to cook rice in Instant Pot like a pro, it’s time to ditch the stovetop and embrace easier, fluffier rice every time. 🙌
⭐ If you loved this recipe, please rate it, leave a comment, and pin it for later!
Happy cooking! 🍚✨



