Jeera Rice

Dive into Instant Pot Jeera Rice
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of Jeera Rice, especially when it’s prepared in an Instant Pot!
This Instant Pot Jeera Rice is a perfect blend of aromatic basmati rice cooked in ghee and seasoned with earthy Jeera Rice seeds and spicy green chilies.
It’s not just easy to make but also a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with your favorite curries and lentils. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe will surely become a staple in your meal rotation.


Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 36 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 210
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
Why I Love This Instant Pot Jeera Rice
This recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s a reminder of family meals back home. The aroma of jeera seeds sizzling in ghee brings back memories of cozy nights filled with laughter and delicious food.
What I love about this Jeera Rice is its simplicity and versatility; you can enjoy it on its own or as a side to something more elaborate.
Plus, the Instant Pot makes it so easy! Just set it up, walk away, and come back to perfectly cooked rice. It’s a fun and satisfying dish that everyone always enjoys.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon jeera seeds (jeera)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2-3 green chilies, slit
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
How to Make Instant Pot Jeera Rice
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy rice. Soak the rinsed rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Turn on the Instant Pot and select ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the ghee or oil and wait until it’s hot. This is your moment to infuse flavor!
Step 3: Add the Spices
Once the ghee is hot, add the jeera seeds and bay leaf. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant; your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 4: Introduce the Chilies
Add the slit green chilies to the pot and sauté for another minute. This adds a lovely spicy kick to the rice.
Step 5: Combine the Rice
Add the drained rice to the pot, stirring well to coat it in the spices. Sauté for 2-3 minutes to toast the rice lightly, enhancing its flavor.
Step 6: Add Water and Season
Pour in the water and add salt to taste. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 7: Pressure Cook
Close the lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing’. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and set the timer for 6 minutes.
Step 8: 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.
Step 9: Fluff and Garnish
Open the lid carefully and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving, inviting vibrant colors to your dish!
Tips & Variations
- Serve Hot: Jeera Rice is best served warm, straight from the pot.
- Garnish: Add some fried onions or toasted nuts for crunch and extra flavor.
- Dietary Swaps: For a vegan option, simply use oil instead of ghee. If you like it spicy, consider adding more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder.
- Serving Suggestions: This Jeera Rice pairs marvelously with coriander chutney or any rich curry like butter chicken or dal makhani.
Delicious Variations
- Lemon Rice: A zesty twist using lemon juice and turmeric for a bright flavor.
- Jeera Pulao: Another simple rice dish featuring Jeera Rice but with vegetables mixed in.
- Herbed Rice: Infuse rice with mixed herbs for a fragrant, herbaceous side.
- Saffron Rice: Luxurious and aromatic, ideal for special occasions.
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Jeera Rice
Serve this Jeera Rice warm as a comforting side dish alongside your favorite meals. It’s delightful during lunch or dinner.
Consider pairing it with a cool cucumber raita and a spicy curry for a balanced and satisfying meal. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite a delicious experience.
Storage and Leftovers
To store leftover Jeera Rice, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the rice for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to revive the moisture.
Helpful Questions
- Can I use other types of rice?
Yes, you can use other long-grain rice varieties, but cooking times may vary. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free. - How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder for extra heat. - Can I prepare this rice ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook it in advance and store it in the fridge for quick meals later. - What sides go well with Jeera Rice?
It pairs perfectly with any curry, lentils, or even grilled meats for a complete meal.
Enjoy making this delightful Instant Pot Jeera Rice and savor each flavorful bite!
Print
Instant Pot Jeera Rice
- Total Time: 36 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting bowl of Jeera Rice made in the Instant Pot, perfect as a side dish for curries and lentils.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2–3 green chilies, slit
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 30 minutes, then drain.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select ‘Sauté’ mode. Add ghee or oil and heat.
- Add cumin seeds and bay leaf, sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add slit green chilies and sauté for another minute.
- Add the drained rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Pour in the water and add salt, gently stir to combine.
- Close the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and pressure cook for 6 minutes.
- Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh coriander.
Notes
Serve hot with fried onions or toasted nuts for crunch. For vegan option, use oil instead of ghee.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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