Instant Pot Basmati Rice

Learn how to make perfect rice in the Instant Pot! This easy method works with all long-grain varieties including white basmati rice.

I always get asked what is the best way to cook rice in the Instant Pot, and since so many of my Instant Pot recipes are served with rice. I figured that it’s time to share my Instant Pot rice recipe with you, aka the best and easiest way to cook rice in the IP!

Cooking rice in the Instant Pot is so easy. In fact, that’s the only way my husband cooks rice now. I love the fact that with the Instant Pot, following the same method, I will end up with the same result every single time. So it’s consistent, and great especially if I’m cooking for a crowd!

So whether you’re an Instant Pot newbie, or a pro, you’re gonna love this!

Do I Need to Soak the Rice Before Cooking It in the Instant Pot

The answer is yes! Soaking rice for at least 15 minutes (preferably 30) helps it absorb some water for better texture, it also helps you get rid of the starchiness that you don’t need as it can make the rice sticky.

So presoak the rice in cold/room temperature water, then drain and rinse.

How to Cook Basmati Rice in the Instant Pot

• As you have soaked the rice already, rinse under running water until it runs clear and it’s ready to go in the Instant Pot.
• Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil just to grease the bottom of the pot. This will prevent any rice from sticking to the bottom.
• Cover with water. The water needs to cover the rice and be just half of an inch above the top of the rice.
• Add a pinch of salt, quickly stir the rice.
• Secure the lid and set the vent to SEALING. Select the PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL setting and set the cooking time for 4 minutes at high pressure. The Instant Pot will take around 7-8 minutes to come to pressure and start cooking. When the cooking program ends, naturally release the steam for 10 minutes then quickly release if any steam is left.
• Carefully remove the lid, and fluff the rice with a fork to serve. Or just add cilantro and lime juice to make my favorite cilantro lime rice!

Can I Cook This Rice Using Broth or Stock?

You sure can! Depending on what flavor you’re aiming for, you can add chicken stock just like I did in my Instant Pot whole chicken recipe. First, you can the chicken and the juices will stay at the bottom of the Instant Pot. And then you add rice to that chicken broth, and make tasty rice to serve with the chicken. It’s one of my most popular recipes on the blog for a reason!

Can I Cook Long Grain Brown Rice in the Instant Pot?

Yes, brown rice is also very easy to make in the Instant Pot but it does take longer. Check out my Instant Pot brown rice recipe for details.

Storing Cooked Rice

Cooked rice can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Serving Ideas

• Instant Pot honey sesame chicken
• Instant Pot beef and broccoli
• Instant Pot hibachi chicken
• Instant Pot shrimp and broccoli
• Instant Pot hibachi steak