How To Make Instant Pot Rice

Making rice in the Instant Pot really is the BEST and easiest way to make perfect rice every single time. It doesn’t matter what kind of rice you’re making if you follow these simple instructions and you too will love pressure cooking rice. 

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How do I use the rice button on my Instant Pot?

I must admit I don’t use the rice function on my Instant Pot because my rice comes out perfectly using the manual pressure cook setting. If your curious about this feature, then give it a try.  This function is specifically for cooking white or parboiled rice. The preset cooking time can’t be changed so these functions can’t be used with other varieties of rice but if white rice is your go-to then give it a whirl.  

What is the water to rice ratio in an instant pot?

For every type of white rice basmati, Jasmine, long grain, short grain, etc. I used a 1:1 ratio meaning 1-part rice to an equal amount of liquid. However, I find that brown rice jasmine or basmati needs a tad bit more water, so I stick to a 1:1.25 meaning 1 cup of brown rice to 1 and ¼ cups of water or broth. The most important part of pressure-cooking rice in the Instant Pot is the natural pressure release. Letting the pressure completely release allows for the rice to finish cooking giving you the perfect results.   

How much does a cup dry of rice make?

When I refer to making rice in the Instant Pot, I always use the measuring cup that came with the Instant Pot. This cup isn’t an actual “cup” in measurements it’s ¾ cups. So, keep in mind when using it that if you start with ¾ cup of dry rice you will get 1 ½ cups of cooked rice. The ratio of dry to cooked is 1:2 meaning if you start with 1 cup of dry rice you get 2 cups of cooked rice.  

Should I get a rice cooker or an instant pot?

In my opinion, hands down an Instant Pot. In fact, the first appliance I donated when I got an Instant Pot was my rice cooker. I liked using a rice cooker but that’s all it was. The versatility of the Instant Pot is why I replaced my slow cooker, my rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer and I rarely use a sauté pan anymore.  

What is the pot in pot method for instant pot?

The P-I-P or pot in pot method of cooking rice is best used when you are making a cup or less of rice. For this method you will need:

• trivet– this is by far my favorite trivet.
• aluminum or oven-safe pot– like this one
• metal strainer-this one is perfect for rice and grains.

Start by pouring one cup of water into the Instant Pot then lowering the trivet down into the pot. Rinse rice under cold water in the metal strainer until clear and dump it into the aluminum pot. Add equal parts of water making sure the rice is fully submerged. Place aluminum pan down onto the trivet and lock lid in place with vent set to the sealing position. For more information about pot in pot, rice jump over here to read more.  

Pressure Cooking Rice Time & Ratio

To cook different varieties of rice, select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” You’ll need to adjust the cooking time depending on the grain:

• Basmati rice: 2-minutes 1:1 full NRP
• Jasmine rice: 2-minutes 1:1 full NRP
• White rice (long/short) 2 minutes 1:1 full NRP
• Brown rice (long/short): 22-24 minutes 1:1.25 full NRP
• Brown Jasmine rice 24 minutes 1:1.25 full NRP
• Wild rice mix: 28-30 minutes 1:1.25 full NRP
• Ancient grain rice mix– 25 minutes 1:1.25 full NRP

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1. Measure out dry rice, and rinse under cold running water. Dump rinsed rice directly into the inner pot in the Instant Pot.
2. Using the same measuring cup, measure out the same amount of water/broth and add it to the Instant Pot.
3. Remember not to go past the halfway mark on the inner pot.
4. Lock the lid in place with the vent knob turned to the sealing position.
5. Turn off the “Keep Warm” setting to ensure you don’t overcook the rice.
6. Select pressure cook or manual and set the indicated time.
7. Wait for a full natural pressure release (NPR)
8. When the float pin has dropped it is safe to remove the lid and fluff the rice.

Do I need to rinse the rice first?

Yes, rinsing rice removes any debris from the rice as well and most importantly, it removes the surface starch that otherwise causes the rice to clump together or get gummy as it cooks. The goal is to stop cooking when all the water has been absorbed by the rice. If you open the cooker, give it a stir, and find there’s still unabsorbed water in the inner pot, then you’ll need to cook it a bit longer.

Do I have to wait for pressure to naturally release?

Yes, waiting for the pressure to release naturally is part of the cooking process for rice.  Naturally releasing the pressure also prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

What liquids can I use to cook rice?

The liquid you use will have an impact on the overall flavor of the rice. You may want to try substituting the water for broth like chicken, beef, or vegetable broth. I especially like to do this with brown rice, wild rice & ancient blend rice. You may also use liquids like lime juice when making cilantro lime rice.

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How to add more flavorful to rice

Add a pinch of salt or a tablespoon of butter. This really is all based on your preferences.