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brown basmati rice in an Instant Pot with a spoon
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Instant Pot Brown Basmati Rice

Instant Pot Brown Basmati Rice is so easy, there's no soaking required, and it comes out perfectly cooked every time!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Natural Pressure Release10 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 4 (about ¾ cup each; recipe makes about 3 cups total)
Estimated Calories: 183
Author: Michelle

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown basmati rice
  • 1¼ cups cold water
  • ½ teaspoon salt, optional
  • 1 tablespoon butter, optional

Special Equipment

  • Instant Pot (I use a 6-quart pot)

Instructions

  • Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve/strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear (about 2 to 3 minutes).
    Don't skip this step! This removes any extra starch that is on the outside of the rice that could otherwise make your rice sticky and gummy.
  • Place the rice in the Instant Pot.
  • Add the water, salt (if using) and butter or oil (if using); stir briefly to combine, making sure that all of the rice is covered by water when you are finished.
  • Put the lid on the Instant Pot and turn the steam release valve to SEALING.
  • Cook at HIGH pressure for 22 minutes.
    It will take the Instant Pot 7 to 10 minutes to come up to pressure before the timer will start counting down the 22 minutes.
  • When the cooking time is finished, turn off the Instant Pot and allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes; then quick-release any remaining pressure.
  • Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

  • If you have an 8-quart Instant Pot, you'll need to double the recipe since it requires more liquid (a minimum of 2 cups) to come to pressure. Double all of the ingredients but keep the same 22-minute cooking time.
  • You could use oil instead of butter (any neutral-tasting oil would work fine).
  • Different brands of rice may cook differently, not to mention that we all have our own preferences as to how we like our rice. As written, this recipe will give you a tender but very slightly al dente rice.
    • If you'd like your rice a little softer, try adding up to another ¼ cup of water.
    • If you'd like your rice a little firmer, try reducing the water by up to ¼ cup.
  • Store leftover cooled rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Freeze for longer-term storage up to 2 to 3 months.
  • Estimated calories shown include butter and salt.
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