Name: Instant Pot Basmati Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 1.5 cups water; 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; Salt to taste

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Fluffy and aromatic Instant Pot basmati rice dish

There’s something magical about the fluffy grains of basmati rice that make every meal feel special. When cooked in an Instant Pot, this fragrant rice comes out perfectly tender and flavorful every time.

Whether you want to serve it with a rich curry, use it as a base for grain bowls, or enjoy it as a simple side dish, this Instant Pot Basmati Rice recipe is your go-to. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or fancy feasts without the fuss.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 150
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fat: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 2mg

Why I Love This Instant Pot Basmati Rice

I absolutely adore this Instant Pot Basmati Rice because it takes the stress out of cooking rice! You get that beautiful, fluffy texture without babysitting a pot on the stove.

The subtle nutty aroma that fills the kitchen reminds me of cozy family gatherings.

It’s versatile enough to pair with virtually any dish, and the best part? It’s ready in just 21 minutes! Cooking rice has never felt so effortless and rewarding.

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
1.5 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Salt to taste

How to Make Instant Pot Basmati Rice

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, ensuring that your rice turns out fluffy instead of sticky.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the rinsed rice, water, olive oil, and salt into the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Seal the Pot

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Make sure the lid is tightly secured to maintain pressure inside.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 6 minutes. This short cooking time is perfect for achieving that tender yet separate grain texture we love!

Step 5: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. This gentle approach ensures perfectly cooked rice.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Finally, fluff the rice with a fork before serving. This is a crucial step that helps separate the grains and enhances the overall texture.

Tips & Variations

Serve Hot: Basmati rice is best served hot, fresh out of the Instant Pot.
Presentation: For a lovely touch, garnish with chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving.
Dietary Swaps: If you prefer a rich flavor, use ghee instead of olive oil or butter. For a gluten-free option, this recipe is naturally gluten-free!
Serving Suggestions: Pair this rice with delicious curries, stir-fries, or even grilled vegetables for a delightful meal.

Delicious Variations

Coconut Rice: Substitute half of the water with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Vegetable Pilaf: Add peas, carrots, and spices like cumin and turmeric for a colorful vegetable rice.
Lemon Rice: Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest after cooking for a citrusy flair.
Saffron Rice: Infuse the water with a few strands of saffron for a luxurious touch.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Basmati Rice

Serve this Instant Pot Basmati Rice warm, ideal for lunch or dinner. For a delightful meal, it pairs beautifully with spicy curries, roasted meats, or even a simple chickpea salad.

If you’re thinking of a cozy family dinner, pair it with Chicken Tikka Masala for a comforting feast that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Storage and Leftovers

To store any leftover basmati rice, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

You can also freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, splash a bit of water over the rice before microwaving to keep it moist.

Helpful Questions

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just ensure you adjust the cooking time as needed, but the same cook time generally applies.
What kind of rice should I use?
Use good quality basmati rice for the best flavor and texture.
Why do I need to rinse the rice?
Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy.
Can I use broth instead of water?
Absolutely! Using vegetable or chicken broth will add more flavor to your rice.
What can I do with leftover rice?
Leftover rice is perfect for fried rice, grain bowls, or as a base for salads!