If you have ever wished for perfectly fluffy and fragrant rice to be ready in just minutes, this Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe is your new best friend. Whether you’re making a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive side for guests, this method takes the guesswork out of cooking basmati rice, delivering consistently tender grains with that signature aromatic touch. It’s quick, easy, and yields rice so light and fluffy, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe uses just a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving the ideal texture, flavor, and even a subtle sheen that makes the rice irresistible.
- 2 cups dry basmati rice: Choosing quality basmati rice is the foundation for that nutty aroma and long, slender grains.
- 2½ cups water: The perfect amount to hydrate and soften the rice without making it mushy.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the rice without overpowering it.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: Helps keep the grains separate and adds a gentle richness; feel free to swap it for vegetable oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, or ghee.
How to Make Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot
Start by adding the basmati rice, water, kosher salt, and your choice of oil directly into the Instant Pot. Gently stir everything to ensure all the rice is submerged beneath the water—this helps the rice cook evenly and prevents any grains from drying out.
Step 2: Secure the Lid Properly
Place the lid on the Instant Pot and make sure the sealing knob is turned to the sealed position. This step is crucial to build the right pressure for perfectly cooked rice.
Step 3: Set the Cooking Time
Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button, set pressure to high, and enter 4 minutes for the cooking time. The Instant Pot will come to pressure quickly, and then start cooking the rice efficiently.
Step 4: Allow for Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking cycle finishes, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. This slow release lets the rice finish absorbing moisture gently, resulting in fluffy, separate grains. After this, carefully release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
How to Serve Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top add a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the rice’s natural aroma beautifully. Toasted nuts, like slivered almonds or cashews, can add a delightful crunch and a bit of elegance.
Side Dishes
This Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes. Think creamy curries, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even simple stir-fried greens. Its subtle flavor is the perfect blank canvas for vibrant and spicy mains.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, try shaping the cooked rice with a small bowl or mold before plating. You can also layer it with sautéed onions and toasted spices to make a fragrant pilaf. Even a sprinkle of saffron infused water drizzled on top will elevate both taste and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days. Keeping the rice dry and sealed helps prevent it from becoming sticky or clumpy.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked basmati rice by spreading it in a thin layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to freezer-safe bags. This way, it stays separate and easy to reheat one portion at a time, lasting up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice to revive moisture, then cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 1–2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water, stirring occasionally until hot and fluffy again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice in this Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe?
While this recipe is optimized for basmati rice, other long-grain rice varieties can work with slight adjustments to cooking time and water ratio, but the unique aroma and texture of basmati might change.
Why do I need to let the Instant Pot do a natural pressure release?
The natural pressure release allows the rice to gently finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture, ensuring the grains are tender and separate rather than mushy.
Can I add flavors or spices while cooking?
Absolutely! Adding a cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, or bay leaves to the pot before cooking imparts lovely subtle flavors to the rice without overpowering it.
Is rinsing the basmati rice necessary before cooking?
Rinsing basmati rice a few times helps remove excess surface starch, which prevents the grains from sticking together and keeps the rice fluffy once cooked.
What if my rice turns out sticky or mushy?
This usually means there was too much water or the rice cooked too long. Stick to the recipe’s water ratio and cook time, and avoid stirring the rice after cooking to keep the grains separate.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe enough if you love quick, fuss-free meals without sacrificing flavor and texture. It’s a wonderful staple to have in your cooking arsenal that will elevate everything from simple weeknight dinners to your most special feasts. Give it a try and enjoy fluffy, perfectly cooked basmati rice every single time!
Print
Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: 6.5 cups cooked rice
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Basmati Rice recipe provides a quick and easy way to prepare perfectly fluffy, fragrant basmati rice using an electric pressure cooker. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it yields six and a half cups of tender rice that’s ideal as a side dish for various cuisines.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry basmati rice
- 2½ cups water
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (alternatively vegetable oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, or ghee)
Instructions
- Add Ingredients: In your Instant Pot, combine the basmati rice, water, kosher salt, and olive oil. Stir gently to ensure that none of the rice is floating above the water surface for even cooking.
- Seal the Pot: Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve knob is set to the “Sealed” position to allow pressure to build inside the pot.
- Set Cooking Time: Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button on your Instant Pot, select the high-pressure setting, and set the timer for 4 minutes to cook the rice thoroughly.
- Natural Pressure Release: Once cooking is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, which helps the rice finish cooking gently and prevents sticking or burning.
- Quick Release Remaining Pressure: Carefully move the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure before opening the lid, ensuring safety and readiness to serve.
Notes
- Rinsing the basmati rice before cooking can help remove excess starch and produce fluffier grains.
- Adjust water quantity slightly if you prefer firmer or softer rice.
- You can substitute broth for water to add more flavor.
- Allow the natural pressure release time to prevent rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Fluff the rice with a fork after cooking to separate the grains.
