Instant Pot Rice

Ingredients

• 185 g (1 cup)jasmine rice
• 240 ml (1 cup)water
• 2.5 ml (1/2 teaspoon)salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the rice

   Rinse the rice, then drain it thoroughly.

2. 2

   Pressure cook

   Put the rinsed rice, salt and water in the Instant Pot. Lock the lid and turn the valve to sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 3 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.

3. 3

   Release and fluff

   Release any remaining pressure, then carefully open the lid. Fluff the rice with a fork.

What is Instant Pot rice?

Rice is a familiar staple served across many cuisines, and this version uses an electric pressure cooker for a convenient American-style side. Jasmine rice gives it a fragrant aroma and tender, slightly clingy grains.

The method keeps the ingredient list short: rice, water and salt. Rinsing first and allowing a natural pressure release help make the cooked rice easier to fluff.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 225 calories, 4g protein, 49g carbs, 1g fat.

Most of the carbohydrate in a serving comes from the jasmine rice, while the water and salt contribute no meaningful protein or fat. Pair a portion with vegetables and a protein-rich main such as beans, tofu, fish or chicken for a more varied plate.

Choosing the rice and water

Jasmine rice: its soft texture and gentle fragrance work well alongside savoury mains. Use the listed amount for this recipe rather than changing the rice variety without adjusting the liquid and cooking method.

Water and salt: measure both accurately so the grains cook evenly and are seasoned throughout. The water is added directly to the cooker with the rinsed rice.

Rinse and drain well

Rinsing: wash the rice before cooking, then drain it thoroughly. Excess water carried into the cooker can change the amount of liquid in the pot.

Handling: transfer the rinsed rice carefully so you keep the measured amount intact. Add it to the Instant Pot with the salt and measured water.

Set the pressure cooker

Seal: lock the lid and check that the valve is turned to sealing before starting the pressure-cook setting. Cook on High Pressure for 3 minutes.

Release: leave the cooker undisturbed for a 10-minute natural pressure release, then release whatever pressure remains. Take care when opening the lid.

Check the texture

Fluffing: use a fork to lift and separate the grains after opening the cooker. Avoid vigorous stirring, which can make soft rice more compact.

Serving cue: the rice is ready to serve once it has been fluffed. If you see liquid or the grains seem underdone, follow your cooker’s guidance before deciding whether to continue cooking.

Serve it with

This mild, lightly salted rice suits dishes with a sauce or strong seasoning, such as curries, stir-fries and roasted vegetables. It can also accompany grilled fish, chicken or tofu.

Serve it warm as a side, or use it as the base for a bowl with vegetables and a protein of your choice.

Recipe notes & tips

• Drain the rinsed rice well before measuring it into the cooker.
• Use the High Pressure setting and the stated 3-minute cooking time.
• Allow the full 10-minute natural release before releasing the remaining pressure.
• Keep your face and hands clear of the steam when releasing pressure.
• Fluff gently with a fork just before serving.

Variations

• Unsalted rice: omit the salt if you prefer to season the rice at the table.
• Herb finish: fold chopped fresh herbs through the fluffed rice before serving.
• Citrus finish: add a little grated lemon zest after cooking for a fresh aroma.
• Spiced side: stir a pinch of your preferred spice into the rice after fluffing.
• Rice bowl: serve with cooked vegetables and a protein of your choice.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the rinse: rinse the rice first and drain it well as directed.
• Adding extra water: measure the water rather than pouring it in by eye.
• Wrong valve position: turn the valve to sealing before pressure cooking.
• Rushing the release: wait for the full 10-minute natural release before venting.
• Stirring hard: fluff with a fork gently to avoid compacting the grains.

How to store

Cool leftover rice promptly and refrigerate it in a covered container for up to 3 days. Reheat until steaming hot, adding a small splash of water if needed to loosen the grains.

Frequently asked questions