What’s in Pressure Cooker Basmati Rice?
When I’m not sure about what to make for dinner, a big pot of comforting and tasty basmati rice is always a good starting point. Rice goes with almost anything, and it’s always perfect when made in the Instant Pot.
Rice: Basmati rice is a long-grain rice that’s the perfect complement to any meal! Water: Helps to cook the rice. For softer rice, add ¼ of additional water. Salt: Kosher salt helps to flavor the rice. If using a finer-grain salt, like sea salt or table salt, use half as much. Oil: Helps to keep the rice from sticking to the instant pot. I like to use olive oil for the subtle flavor it imparts, but you could use vegetable oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, or ghee.
Pro Tip: For fluffier rice, rinse or soak the rice before cooking it.
Ratios for Basmati Rice in the Instant Pot
When making rice, I like to use a ratio of 1.25:1 — that is 1¼ cups of water for every 1 cup of rice. If you soak your rice, you’ll want to reduce that ratio to 1:1 because the rice will have already absorbed some water. As written, this recipe makes 6 cups of cooked rice from 2½ cups of water and 2 cups of dry rice. For a smaller portion of rice, reduce the water to 1¼ cups and the rice to 1 cup. For a larger portion of rice, double the recipe, using 5 cups of water and 4 cups of rice.
How to Make Ahead and Store Instant Pot Basmati White Rice
Cooked basmati rice is a great meal-prep food! It will keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator, so prep a big batch and use it all week!
How to Freeze and Reheat White Basmati Rice
Freeze instant pot basmati rice in an airtight container for up to 4 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Sprinkle the rice with a few tablespoons of water and reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between, until warmed through.
What to Serve with this Instant Pot Rice Recipe
I’m a big proponent of rice as the ideal side dish. It really and truly goes with everything! Try this basmati rice with vegetarian dishes, like teriyaki tofu, enchilada stuffed pepper casserole, or black eyed peas; meat dishes, like beef stew, sweet and sour chicken, chili con carne, stuffed pork loin, or chicken cacciatore; or fish, like orange glazed salmon, creamy Parmesan shrimp, or surf and turf.
More Instant Pot Side Dish Recipes We Love
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Instant Pot Twice Baked Potatoes Instant Pot Green Bean Casserole Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes Instant Pot Potato Salad