Cooking rice in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to make perfect rice every time. The pressurized environment helps the rice cook evenly while trapping in moisture. But how long should you actually cook rice in the Instant Pot to get the best results?
What type of rice works best in an Instant Pot?
Most types of rice can be made in the Instant Pot, but some work better than others. Here are the best options:
- White rice: Long grain, jasmine and basmati rice turn out light and fluffy.
- Brown rice: The Instant Pot cuts brown rice cooking time in half while still retaining nutrients.
- Wild rice: Wild rice cooks up chewy and tender with natural flavor.
- Rice mixes: Rice pilafs and seasoned rice mixes rehydrate well in the pressurized environment.
- Short grain rice: Shorter grains like Arborio rice work for risotto, but may turn out sticky.
The Instant Pot is not recommended for sticky or glutinous rice like sushi rice. The sugars in these varieties can burn and stick to the bottom of the pot.
How to cook rice in an Instant Pot
Cooking rice in the Instant Pot follows a simple process:
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Add the rinsed rice and correct amount of water to the Instant Pot (see ratio below).
- Secure the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “sealing.”
- Select the manual/pressure cook setting and adjust cook time as needed.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally after cooking completes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Instant Pot rice-to-water ratios
Getting the right ratio of rice to water is key for properly cooked Instant Pot rice. Here are some general guidelines:
| Rice Type | Rice:Water Ratio |
|---|---|
| White Rice | 1:1 |
| Brown Rice | 1:1.25 |
| Wild Rice | 1:2.5 |
| Rice Mixes | Follow package instructions |
So for every 1 cup of white rice, add 1 cup water. For brown rice, add 1 1⁄4 cup water per 1 cup rice. This ratio can be adjusted based on personal preference for softer or firmer grains.
How long to cook rice in Instant Pot
Cook times vary slightly for different rice varieties. Here are average cook times for common types of rice:
| Rice Type | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| White Rice | 3 minutes |
| Brown Rice | 15 minutes |
| Wild Rice | 22 minutes |
| Rice Mixes | Follow package instructions |
Keep in mind that cook time will also vary based on the amount of rice you are cooking. As a general rule, add 1-2 minutes for smaller batches (under 1 cup uncooked rice) and 4-5 minutes for larger batches (over 2 cups rice).
Tips for perfect Instant Pot rice
Follow these tips for foolproof, restaurant-quality rice from your Instant Pot every time:
- Rinse rice first. This removes excess starch for fluffier grains.
- Use the pot-in-pot method. Place rice in a stainless steel bowl on a trivet to prevent scorching.
- Don’t skip the resting time. Let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes.
- Fluff gently. Use a fork to gently separate grains after cooking.
- Check doneness before serving. Taste a few grains to ensure rice is cooked through.
- Keep warm up to 2 hours. Use the “keep warm” setting to hold rice for serving.
- Add a little liquid. Stir in a splash of water if rice needs restored moisture.
Foolproof Instant Pot white rice recipe
This simple recipe for Instant Pot white rice turns out perfect grains every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 cup water
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse rice in a mesh strainer until water runs clear. Drain well.
- Add rinsed rice and water to Instant Pot. Add pinch of salt if desired.
- Secure lid and set valve to “sealing” position.
- Select manual/pressure cook, high pressure and set time for 3 minutes.
- Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
- Carefully open lid, fluff rice with a fork and serve.
This basic 1:1 rice to water ratio works perfectly every time. Adjust cook time up or down 1 minute as needed to achieve desired texture. Enjoy fluffy Instant Pot rice on its own or as a side dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you rinse rice before cooking in an Instant Pot?
Yes, it’s recommended to rinse rice before cooking in the Instant Pot. Rinsing removes excess starch from the surface of the grains which helps prevent the rice from getting gummy or sticky as it cooks. It only takes a minute to rinse rice in a mesh strainer under running water.
Do you have to use the manual/pressure cook setting?
Yes, the manual or pressure cook setting must be used to cook rice in the Instant Pot. This ensures the pot reaches the proper pressure and temperature needed to properly cook rice. The rice or multigrain settings are not recommended as they may not achieve high enough pressure.
Can you cook rice directly in the Instant Pot?
Rice can be cooked directly in the inner pot of the Instant Pot. However, for best results it’s recommended to use a stainless steel bowl. The bowl prevents rice from sticking or scorching on the bottom of the pot. Place the bowl on a trivet or steamer basket over 1 cup water.
How long does Instant Pot rice last in the fridge?
Cooked rice will keep 3-5 days refrigerated in an airtight container. For longer storage, rice can be frozen up to 6 months. Let rice cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Why is my Instant Pot rice undercooked?
If rice is still crunchy or hard after cooking, it’s likely undercooked. This can happen if there is not enough water (use a 1:1 ratio for white rice), the cook time was too short, or the release time was cut short. Make sure to allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick releasing.
Why is my Instant Pot rice mushy or sticky?
Using too much water is a common cause of mushy rice from the Instant Pot. Try reducing the amount of water slightly, and use a 1:1 water to rice ratio for most varieties. Releasing pressure immediately rather than natural release can also cause excess moisture in the grains.
Conclusion
Cooking rice in the Instant Pot is fast, easy and foolproof. While cook times vary slightly for different varieties, white rice takes just 3 minutes under pressure. Following the recommended 1:1 rice to water ratio, rinsing rice first, and allowing a natural pressure release are keys to perfectly cooked rice every time. In just a few minutes, you can enjoy restaurant-worthy rice from the convenience of your Instant Pot.