Instant Pot White Rice
25 min
|
easy
|
gluten-free,
lactose-free,
low-fat,
low-FODMAP,
vegan
Recipe by Eunice
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 5 min | 20 min | 25 min |
Introduction
This Instant Pot white rice comes out fluffy, tender, and perfectly cooked every single time.
It is a simple, no-fuss side dish that works with everything from weeknight stir-fries to cozy curry dinners.
The pressure cooker locks in moisture and flavor, so you get consistent, restaurant-style rice without watching a pot on the stove.
Ingredients (6 servings)
Ingredients
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How to Make Instant Pot White Rice
-
Rinse and measure the rice
Measure 2 cups of long grain white rice into a fine mesh strainer.
Rinse under cool running water, gently swishing, until the water runs mostly clear.
Let the rice drain for a minute so you do not dilute the cooking liquid.
-
Add everything to the Instant Pot
Add the rinsed rice to the Instant Pot inner pot in an even layer.
Pour in 2 cups of water and sprinkle in the salt, if you are using it.
Drizzle in the oil or add a small dollop of butter, then gently nudge to level.
Do not stir, which can cause rice to stick or cook unevenly in the pressure cooker.
-
Set the Instant Pot to cook
Lock on the lid and set the valve to Sealing, if your model uses a valve.
Select Pressure Cook or Manual, set to HIGH pressure, and set the timer for 4 minutes.
The pot will take about 6 to 8 minutes to come up to pressure before cooking starts.
-
Let the rice rest and release pressure
When the 4 minutes are done, let the Instant Pot sit for 10 minutes of natural release.
After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to Venting to release any remaining steam.
Open the lid away from you to avoid the hot steam hitting your face and hands.
-
Fluff, serve, or store
Use a fork or rice paddle to gently fluff the rice, breaking up any large clumps.
Serve right away, or leave on Keep Warm for up to 20 minutes for the best texture.
For meal prep, spread leftovers on a baking sheet to cool, then refrigerate in airtight containers.
Substitutions
- Oil -> Butter
- Swap the oil for an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer, slightly nutty flavor and softer grains.
- Water -> Chicken or vegetable broth
- Use broth instead of water to add gentle savory flavor, which makes the rice taste almost like a simple pilaf.
- Neutral oil -> Coconut oil
- Coconut oil adds a light tropical aroma and slightly richer mouthfeel, especially delicious if you serve the rice with curries.
Tips
- Rinse until the water is almost clear
- Rinsing removes excess surface starch, which helps the rice cook up fluffy instead of gummy or clumped.
- Adjust water slightly for different textures
- For slightly firmer rice, use 1 3/4 cups water; for softer rice, use up to 2 1/4 cups water.
- Avoid the Burn message
- Make sure no rice is stuck to the very bottom, and always use at least 1 cup of liquid.
- Scale the recipe, but keep the ratio
- You can halve or double the rice and water, but keep the same cook time and resting time.
- Fluff promptly for the best texture
- Fluffing right after opening lets excess steam escape, which keeps the grains separate and less sticky.
Nutrition Facts *
| Energy | 183 | kcal |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 3 | g |
| Total Fat | 0 | g |
| Carbohydrates | 41 | g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 | g |
* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.
FAQ
- Why did my Instant Pot rice turn out mushy?
- Too much water or too long of a natural release usually causes mushy rice. Next time, reduce the water by a few tablespoons, or shorten the natural release to 5 minutes.
- Why is my rice still a little firm or crunchy?
- Firm rice usually means there was not quite enough water or the pot released pressure too quickly. Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot water, cover, and let it sit on Keep Warm 5 minutes.
- Can I use this method for jasmine or basmati rice?
- Yes, this timing and ratio works well for most long grain white jasmine or basmati rice. If you like your jasmine extra tender, add 2 extra tablespoons of water for the full recipe.
- How do I prevent rice from sticking to the bottom?
- Rinsing the rice, using the oil or butter, and not stirring before cooking all help prevent sticking. After cooking, avoid leaving the rice on Keep Warm longer than 20 to 30 minutes.
- Can I make a smaller batch of rice in the Instant Pot?
- You can make as little as 1 cup of dry rice as long as you keep the ratio. Use 1 cup water with 1 cup rice, and keep the same cook and release times.
Serving Suggestions
This simple Instant Pot white rice makes a cozy base for stir-fries, curries, beans, and saucy skillet dinners.
For extra flavor, stir in chopped fresh herbs, lime zest, or a spoonful of pesto right before serving.
Leftovers reheat beautifully for quick grain bowls with roasted vegetables, leftover protein, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
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