Easy Instant Pot Basmati Rice (Fluffy!)

This easy Instant Pot / Foodi / Pressure Cooker basmati rice is a simple and fluffy white rice recipe. Make ahead or pair as a side with a protein, like shrimp, chicken egg rolls, bang bang chicken, or chicken teriyaki for an awesome dinner!

How do I prepare Instant Pot basmati rice?

To prepare rice, soak in a large bowl of water for at least an hour. This helps to improve digestibility and water absorption.

If you do not have an hour to spare, cook at pressure for 7 minutes and natural release for an extra 5 minutes, as indicated in the recipe.

How much water do I use for Instant Pot basmati rice? 

The rice to water ratio is 1 to 1. 

If you’re using one cup of rice, you will use one cup of cold water in the pressure cooker.

How do I prepare easy basmati rice in my Instant Pot / Ninja Foodi?

After soaking the rice, add 1 cup of water and one cup of basmati rice to the Instant Pot or Ninja Foodi.

Make sure you turn knob to seal position and cook at high-pressure for 7 minutes +10 minutes of natural release. 

What can I make with leftover rice? 

• Soups (try our Chicken Fricassee Stew or venison stew)
• Stuffed peppers or squash
• Chicken fried rice
• Chicken Biryani
• Breakfast / egg dish

How long will basmati rice keep in the fridge? 

The rice is best served right away, but you can keep in the fridge for up to three days. 

Can I freeze basmati rice? 

Rice will keep in the freezer for up to a month, keeping its taste and consistency. Store in an air-tight freezer bag or zipper bag. 

What seasonings go best with basmati rice? 

These amazing seasonings will spice up your basmati rice recipe: 

• Chicken broth
• Onions
• Cilantro
• Coconut milk
• Garlic 
• Cumin
• Saffron 

What can I substitute for basmati rice? 

Jasmine rice is an easy alternative for basmati rice.

Basmati vs. Jasmine Rice

Basmati and jasmine are both long-grain rices. Basmati will lengthen as it cooks, nearly twice it’s size, while jasmine is shorter and a bit more plump. 

Also, basmati rice has a lower glycemic index, making it a better option for diabetics or low-glycemic diets.

What can I serve with basmati rice?

Rice is best served with a protein, such as chicken thighs, beef or vegetable medley/stir fry.

How do I make rice less mushy?

To make rice less mushy, reduce pressure cook time by one minute and natural release for only eight minutes, then quick release.

How long do I need to soak Instant Pot basmati rice before cooking? 

You’ll need to soak rice for at least an hour in a large bowl.

No soak basmati rice option

If you do not soak your rice, cook at pressure for 8 minutes and natural release for at least 8 minutes.