Instant Pot Brown Rice Recipe

This perfectly fluffy Instant Pot Brown Rice is a game-changer for busy weeknights! With just three simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll have nutritious, perfectly cooked brown rice ready to complement any meal. The pressure cooking method delivers consistent results every time, making this essential side dish completely foolproof.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Long Grain Brown Rice: The star of the show! Brown rice has a wonderful nutty flavor and hearty texture. Make sure you’re using long grain for the best results in this recipe.
• Water: The liquid that creates the perfect steaming environment. The 1:1.25 rice-to-water ratio is key to achieving ideal texture.
• Kosher Salt: Just a pinch enhances the natural flavor of the rice. It’s optional but recommended for the best taste.

Variations

Flavor Boosters

Swap the water for vegetable or chicken broth for richer flavor. Add aromatics like minced garlic, ginger, or lemongrass before cooking.

Coconut Rice

Replace half the water with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist.

Herb-Infused Rice

Add bay leaves, dried thyme, or a sprig of rosemary to the pot before cooking.

Mexican-Style Rice

Add a tablespoon of tomato paste and a teaspoon of cumin to the water before cooking.

How to Make Instant Pot Brown Rice

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Add rice to a fine-meshed strainer. Rinse under cool running water, scrubbing the grains between your fingers until the water runs clear (about 1 minute). Shake gently to remove excess water.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Instant Pot

Place the rinsed rice, water, and salt (if using) into your 6-quart Instant Pot.

Step 3: Seal and Set

Make sure the release valve is in the “Sealing” position. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot.

Step 4: Cook

Press the “Manual” button and set to high pressure. Adjust the time to 22 minutes using the “+” or “-” buttons. The pot will take 7-10 minutes to build pressure before the timer begins.

Step 5: Natural Release

When cooking completes, press “Keep Warm/Cancel” and allow pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Vent and Serve

Carefully turn the steam release handle to “Venting” position. Once pressure is released, remove the lid, opening away from your face. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.

Step 7: Final Steam (Optional)

For extra tender grains, cover the pot and let it rest for an additional 5-10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Brown rice makes a versatile base for countless dishes:

As a Side Dish

Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

In Grain Bowls

Top with roasted vegetables, a protein of choice, and a flavorful sauce for a nutritious bowl.

For Stir-Fries

Use as a base for your favorite stir-fry vegetables and proteins.

In Soups

Add to hearty soups and stews for extra substance and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Portion cooled rice into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. For easy portioning, freeze in ice cube trays, then transfer to a larger container.

Reheating

Microwave with a sprinkle of water to restore moisture (1-2 minutes), or steam on the stovetop with a splash of water.

FAQs

Can I use short-grain brown rice instead of long-grain?
Yes, you can use short-grain brown rice, but the texture will be stickier and more glutinous. You may need to adjust the water slightly (try 1.5 cups water to 1 cup rice) and keep the cooking time the same.

Why did my rice turn out mushy?
Mushy rice usually means there was too much water or the rice was overcooked. Make sure you’re measuring accurately and following the recommended cooking times. Also, allowing the rice to naturally release pressure for the full 15 minutes is important for proper texture.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! You can double or even triple this recipe without adjusting the cooking time. Just maintain the same rice-to-water ratio (1:1.25) and make sure you don’t fill your Instant Pot beyond the maximum fill line.

My rice was too firm. What went wrong?
If your rice is still firm after cooking, it likely needed more time or more water. For firmer rice varieties or higher elevations, try increasing the cooking time by 2-3 minutes or adding an extra tablespoon or two of water per cup of rice.

This foolproof Instant Pot Brown Rice recipe will transform how you prepare this nutritious grain! With perfect results every time and virtually no effort, you’ll wonder why you ever made rice any other way. Whether you’re serving it as a simple side or using it as a foundation for your main dish, this method delivers consistent, delicious results that will make brown rice a regular in your meal rotation.

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