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Perfect Instant Pot Brown Rice

4.8/5
5 reviews
Perfect Instant Pot Brown Rice
Perfect Instant Pot Brown Rice
27min Total Time
6 people Servings
Easy Difficulty
Budget Cost
150 kcal Calories

Video

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Ingredients

6
  • 2 cups brown rice, rinsed and drained
  • 2.5 cups water or broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • Optional: 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1

Rinse brown rice in a fine mesh strainer until water runs clear

2

Add rinsed rice to the Instant Pot inner pot

3

Add water or broth, olive oil, and salt

4

Optional: add bay leaf for extra flavor

5

Close lid and set valve to sealing position

6

Select Manual/Pressure Cook and set for 22 minutes at high pressure

7

When cooking time ends, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes

8

After 10 minutes, release any remaining pressure

9

Remove lid and fluff rice with fork

10

Let stand 5 minutes before serving

Troubleshooting

If rice is too wet, cook on Saut mode for 2-3 minutes to dry excess moisture
If rice is too firm, add 1/4 cup water and cook on high pressure for 2 more minutes
If getting 'burn' notice, ensure there's no rice stuck to bottom before starting
If rice is sticking, remember to add oil next time
If rice is mushy, reduce water ratio next time

Recipe Variations

Coconut Brown Rice: Use coconut milk for half the liquid Garlic Herb: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and fresh herbs Mexican Style: Add cumin, lime zest, and cilantro Asian Fusion: Cook with star anise and soy sauce Mediterranean: Add olive oil, lemon zest, and oregano

Serving Suggestions

Serve as base for stir-fries or curry dishes Use in rice bowls with roasted vegetables and protein Perfect side dish for grilled meats or fish Mix with black beans and seasonings for burrito filling Use as base for grain-based salads

Nutrition Facts

150
Calories
3g
Protein
32g
Carbs
2g
Fat

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not rinsing rice before cooking Using too much water Quick releasing pressure immediately after cooking Forgetting to add salt Skipping the rest period after cooking

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my brown rice mushy?

Too much water was likely used. Stick to the 1:1.25 rice to water ratio.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, keep the same rice to water ratio but add 2 minutes to cooking time.

Why do I need to rinse the rice?

Rinsing removes excess starch and prevents rice from becoming sticky.

Can I use chicken broth instead of water?

Yes, any broth can be substituted for water for added flavor.

How long does cooked brown rice last?

Up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze cooked brown rice?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 6 months in airtight containers.

Why natural release instead of quick release?

Natural release allows rice to finish cooking and prevents mushiness.

Can I add seasonings to the rice?

Yes, add dry seasonings at the beginning of cooking.

What's the best way to reheat leftover rice?

Add a splash of water and microwave covered, or steam in Instant Pot.

Why did I get a 'burn' notice?

Ensure no rice is stuck to bottom and proper liquid ratio is used.

Reviews

Zara M.
Mar 16, 2026
Perfect rice every time! Never going back to stovetop method.
Xavier P.
Mar 16, 2026
Great basic recipe, love how hands-off it is.
Yuki T.
Mar 4, 2026
Finally achieved perfectly cooked brown rice!
Winston R.
Mar 4, 2026
Simple and reliable recipe for meal prep.
Victoria L.
Feb 24, 2026
Best brown rice recipe I've tried in my Instant Pot.
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