Here is the ultimate collection of Instant Pot Rice recipes. You will find basic recipes such as basmati rice and sushi rice, pilaf and biryani recipes, and creamy risotto and rice pudding recipes. Try these easy rice side dishes for your everyday meals!
Rice is the comfort food not just in Indian cuisine but in many cuisines across the world. Rice is one of those pantry staples I always come back to. Whether you are serving it with dal, curry, or a simple veggie side, it makes the meal feel complete and comforting.
Here, we bring you a list of rice recipes that are flavorful and easy to make in the Instant Pot. Many of these rice dishes are naturally vegan and gluten-free, while a few include yogurt, milk, ghee, or meat. I like to call that out so you can quickly pick the recipe that fits your meal.
Table of Contents
- Why use Instant Pot to make Rice?
- Things to keep in mind to cook Perfect Rice in the Instant Pot
- How much rice can I cook in the Instant Pot?
- Basic Rice Recipes
- Flavored Rice Recipes
- Hearty One-Pot Rice Dishes – Biryani, Pilaf & Risotto
- Lentil/Bean & Rice Recipes
- Meat & Rice Recipes
- Chicken Pulao
- Sweet/Dessert Rice
- More Instant Pot Recipe Collections
Why use Instant Pot to make Rice?
In India, we have been using the stovetop pressure cooker to cook rice for a long time. Instant Pot is the newest innovation in pressure cookers. It is an electric pressure cooker, a great gadget for making perfect rice!
Cooking rice can sometimes be tricky. There are personal and cultural preferences, such as the type of rice to use and how soft the rice should be cooked. These tried-and-tested recipes are a great way to enjoy the many ways to cook rice.
I love to cook rice in the instant pot (rather, I love to cook almost everything in the instant pot). The best part of the Instant Pot for me is that it helps me make all my rice recipes in one pot and reminds me by beeping to look back at it while I do other chores, and it does not burn even if I ignore the beep 🙂
Things to keep in mind to cook Perfect Rice in the Instant Pot
When trying different rice recipes, keep in mind and review the key tips for making perfect rice.
Rinse and/or soak the rice
Many recipes will call for rinsing rice. This may seem like an unnecessary step to some, but rinsing rice helps remove debris and excess starch.
Some recipes suggest soaking rice, while others cook it without soaking. I have tested both ways, and they both work. However, the cooking time varies for soaked vs unsoaked rice.
Rice to water ratio
Depending on the type of rice used and whether it was soaked, the rice-to-water ratio can vary.
Pressure cooking time
The pressure cooking time for rice can vary depending on the type of rice, such as white or brown, basmati or wild rice, and it can vary depending on whether the rice was soaked or unsoaked. The pressure-cooking time can also vary depending on personal preference for al dente or soft rice. It also depends on the altitude at which pressure cooking is being done.
Typically, the pressure-cooking time does NOT vary with changes in the quantity of cooked rice. So if you double a rice recipe, the pressure-cooking time stays the same. The pot might take longer to reach pressure and release it.
Get a printable chart for Instant Pot rice cooking times for various types of rice and grains.
Pressure release method
Do note the suggested method to release pressure in the recipes. The most common method in rice recipes is a 10-minute NPR, which means letting the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually releasing the pressure by turning the valve to venting. Some recipes call for a natural or quick pressure release.
How much rice can I cook in the Instant Pot?
Instant Pot recommends cooking at least 1 cup of rice when cooking directly in the inner pot. If you’re cooking less, use the pot-in-pot method. Remember not to fill your inner pot past the halfway mark when cooking food that expands, such as rice.
- When cooking just plain rice in the Instant Pot (basic recipe), my tests suggest a maximum of 6 cups of rice in a 6-quart Instant Pot.
- When cooking rice pilaf in an Instant Pot with lots of veggies or meat, my tests suggest a maximum of 4.5 cups of rice in a 6-quart model.
Basic Rice Recipes
Let us start off with the basic rice recipes made in the pressure cooker that go well with a steaming bowl of curry.
In basic rice recipes, the pot-in-pot method is a great way to cook rice. This works perfectly for cooking a small amount of rice and has the added advantage of cooking in the bowl you want to serve from.
Basmati Rice
Being a North Indian, my preferred rice is basmati. It is a long-grain rice that is slender and aromatic. It is a popular choice during festive occasions or when entertaining. I cook this rice in two ways – in the inner pot of the Instant Pot or using the pot-in-pot method.
Brown Rice
Brown basmati rice is a wholesome alternative to white basmati rice. Get the foolproof recipes for brown rice here – in the inner pot of the Instant Pot and the pot-in-pot method.
Jasmine Rice
Perfectly cooked Jasmine Rice in the Instant Pot in two ways: main pot and pot-in-pot. Add the rice and water, set the timer, and return to perfectly cooked instant pot jasmine rice.
Wild Rice
It is quick and easy to cook nutritious wild rice in the Instant Pot. These Instant Pot Wild Rice have a sweet aroma, nutty flavor, and chewy texture.
Wild Rice Blend
This nutty and flavorful instant pot wild rice blend recipe is simple and ready in 30 minutes.
Sushi Rice
Learn how to cook perfect sushi rice in the Instant Pot with this foolproof recipe. This Japanese sushi rice recipe is easy and quick, and makes the best rice for sushi rolls, sushi bowls, and hand rolls.
Calrose Rice
Cook perfect Calrose rice in the Instant Pot every time with this tried-and-tested recipe. It is easy and makes the best rice as a side dish, in stir-fries, or for making sushi.
Sona Masoori Rice
Sona Masoori rice is a medium-grain rice popular in southern India. Ready in a jiffy, this aromatic Sona Masoori rice pairs well with curries or just a plain bowl of yogurt.
Flavored Rice Recipes
Once you have mastered cooking rice, you can start adding flavor with different spices and vegetables. There are many variations to make rice – with whole spices, vegetables, chicken, shrimp, etc.
Turmeric Yellow Rice
This fragrant and flavorful Turmeric Yellow Rice is a wholesome alternative to white rice. Try this recipe to learn how to easily make this vibrant rice in an Instant Pot.
Tomato Rice
Tomato Rice is a quick, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy days and lunchboxes. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s tangy, flavorful, and effortless to make in an Instant Pot or on the stovetop. This family favorite is sure to become a go-to recipe!
Spanish Rice
This Instant Pot Spanish Rice, often known as Mexican Rice or Arroz Rojo, is flavorful, easy to make, and incredibly tasty. This versatile Spanish Rice is a wonderful side dish for any meal!
Saffron Rice with Nuts & Raisins
A classic Saffron Rice Pilaf with nuts and raisins, made in one pot, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Make it on the stovetop or in the instant pot; it’s weeknight-friendly and great for guests!
Cilantro Lime Rice
This Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Brown Rice is easy and tasty. The fresh cilantro and lime flavors make it a wonderful side dish or ingredient for burritos or bowls!
Cumin Rice
A perfect accompaniment for any curry or gravy. This Jeera rice is made with basmati rice, cumin seeds (jeera), and whole spices. This cumin rice is perfect to pair with curries.
Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is an enticing aromatic combination of perfectly cooked rice and coconut milk or flakes. This rice is a vegan, gluten-free side dish for curries from any cuisine, especially Indian and Thai.
Lemon Rice
If you want a bowl of tangy and zesty rice, lemon rice is your choice. Flavored with lemon juice and topped with roasted peanuts, this rice dish will brighten up your meal.
Hearty One-Pot Rice Dishes – Biryani, Pilaf & Risotto
Tracing its origins to Central Asia, Pilaf is a mixture of rice with vegetables or meat, along with various spices and garnishes. It is essentially a one-pot dish where all the ingredients are cooked together. Here are some popular rice pilaf recipes you will enjoy!
Lemon Asparagus Risotto
This Instant Pot Lemon Asparagus Risotto brings all the vibrant flavors of spring to your bowl. This gluten-free risotto is the best one-pot meal made with fresh asparagus, zesty lemon, and arborio rice.
Vegetable Biryani
Aroma-filled basmati rice, saffron, vegetables, and spices come together to make this delicious bowl of authentic Vegetable Biryani. You can get this fluffy biryani made in an Instant Pot in less than 40 minutes.
Vegetable Pulao
Vegetable Rice Pilaf, or Pulao, is an easy one-pot rice dish mixed with a variety of vegetables and mildly flavored with spices.
Spinach Rice
Spinach rice, made with spinach, basmati rice, onion, garlic, and spices, is a flavorful side to include in your dinner rotation.
Chickpeas & Rice
Chickpea Rice, also called Chana Pilaf, is an easy, flavorful recipe perfect for weeknights. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this one-pot pulao can be made easily in the Instant Pot.
Mushroom Rice
A wholesome combination of brown rice and mushrooms cooked into a delicious pilaf. This can be enjoyed as a side or main dish along with some raita!
Beet Rice
Beet Rice Pilaf is made with beets, basmati rice, and aromatic spices. This is a brilliant and sneaky way to introduce beets to your meals.
Black-Eyed Peas and Spinach Rice
A bowl of nutritious rice pilaf that contains the goodness of both proteins and vegetables. They can be made in just 30 minutes in the Instant Pot.
Peas Pulao
Fragrant and flavorful Peas Pulao (Matar Pulao) is made with basmati rice cooked with whole spices and green peas. It is delicious and effortless to make in the Instant Pot. Pair this peas pulao as a side dish with any curry or dal for a delicious meal!
Chana Dal Pulao
A delicious protein-rich rice dish made with chana dal (split yellow chickpeas) and basmati rice cooked along with the aroma of whole spices.
Lentil/Bean & Rice Recipes
Lentils and rice is a popular comfort food in many parts of the world. Here are some recipes you will love!
Moong Dal Khichdi
Lentil and rice khichdi is simple comfort food that requires minimal prep work. You can top it off with yogurt, pickle, or dal. Be sure to add a dollop of ghee to the khichdi to enjoy its real flavor.
Mujadara (Lebanese Lentils & Rice)
Lentils and rice cooked with fragrant spices and topped with caramelized onions. This vegan and gluten-free Instant Pot Mujadara is also budget-friendly and nutritious.
Mexican Rice & Beans
These Mexican Instant Pot Rice and Beans are flavorful, easy to make, and wonderfully delicious. This dump-and-go recipe has brown rice, beans, broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, and spices.
Masala Khichdi
This masala khichdi is a cozy one-pot meal made with rice, lentils, and vegetables. It is nourishing, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something simple and comforting.
Meat & Rice Recipes
I have compiled a list of irresistible one-pot meat-and-rice recipes you can make in your Instant Pot. They are hearty and family-friendly. Add a cooling raita, salad, or simple veggie side, and dinner is ready with very little cleanup.
Chicken Biryani
One-pot Chicken Biryani with fragrant rice and tender chicken pieces cooked in spices and caramelized onions in less than 30 minutes!
Keema Pulao
Keema pulao is an aromatic one-pot meal that combines succulent ground meat with fragrant basmati rice. This flavorful gluten-free rice dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner with cooling raita and salad.
Chicken Pulao
A delicious one-pot meal made with fragrant Basmati rice, tender chicken pieces, and aromatic spices. It’s a flavorful, satisfying weeknight meal that can be made in just 30 minutes.
Sweet/Dessert Rice
Rice is a versatile grain that is great in both sweet and savory recipes. Here you will find my recipes for desserts made with rice. These desserts are so much easier with the Instant Pot, with the same authentic taste.
Zarda Sweet Rice
A royal dessert prevalent in northern India, this recipe is loaded with cashews, almonds, raisins, and saffron. Milk, ghee, and long-grain basmati rice are used along with the nuts to prepare this delicious Zarda Rice.
Kheer (Indian Rice Pudding)
A favorite Indian dessert/pudding made with rice and milk. This dessert is infused with saffron and cardamom and topped with dried fruits. This dump-and-go recipe is everyone’s favorite and has rave reviews!
We hope you have found one or more rice recipes to make in the Instant Pot. Let us know which one you’re most excited to make, and share this roundup with your friends!
I love cooking Indian food I have used Latiffs YouTube web site for a few years but found yours just now. Very nice layout and presentation and a ton of recopies. I hope you don’t mind but have copied to my widows notes your Rogan Josh and Cucumber Raita and Indian Onion Salad for my personal use, easy access.
Thank you very much your blog is very useful. Nice post!
Hi Meeta, I love your recipes! Just have one question.. What is the taste/ingredients difference between veggie pulav, veggie biryani and masale bhaat? When I make them all three tastes similar, so wanted to know from you, the expert, difference between them.
Hi Anjali – Thank you for your kind words. I will share my understanding of the differences.
In traditional biryani, there is layering of veggies and rice. Also, there yogurt, mint and cilantro are added while cooking biryani, but not for pulao. Biryani also involves a lot of fried onions and the the spice level is a little but higher. I usually skip tomatoes when making biryani. You can check more details in the vegetable biryani recipe.
For pulao, the veggies and rice are just cooked together. Many times people skip adding any whole spice when making a pulao, but I do think it adds so much to the flavor and add them to my pulao recipe.
Masale Bhaat has different spices. Goda masala spice blend is used to make it, which gives a much different taste than regular pulao.
I hope that helps clarify the differences.
I was excited to try some more rice recipes in my IP, but all the links for the full recipes just link back to this webpage instead of to the recipe page.
Hi Carol – Sorry to that you are having trouble to get to the recipes. I found that there was an issue after trying all the links, and have now fixed it. Could you please give it another try?