Learn how to cook brown rice in an instant pot like a pro – This is a simple, fast and foolproof way to prepare brown rice.
Brown Rice in Instant pot– simple, fast, and delicious
No one wants to spend all day cooking brown rice. The instant pot makes the cooking process simple, fast, and delicious and cooks perfectly each time.
Because of the grainy exterior, it takes a while to cook. Therefore, the instant pot is an excellent option to get it done in time. This method is almost hands-off. Put all the ingredients into the pot and do other things. It will come out tender and fluffy.
Besides, with minimal prep time, you can make it ahead in batches and use it in other recipes on busy weeknights.
Brown rice is fiber-rich and more nutritious than regular white rice. Further, it has a mild nutty flavor and a chewy texture. Unlike white rice, this brown variety is whole grain. It still has the bran, germ, and endosperm intact, like a case.
What Do You Need to Cook Brown Rice?
All you need is brown rice and water. I used the long-grain brown rice, but the short-grain rice works well too. Ensure that you rinse it properly to remove excess starches that can make the rice gummy when cooked. Asides from water, you can also use chicken stock and a bit of oil for a richer flavor.
How to Cook Brown Rice in an Instant Pot
You’d agree that rice is one of the easiest grains to cook. Despite this, cooking a bowl of perfect rice can still be challenging. The accuracy of the cooking time, method, and water-to-rice ratio goes a long way. A mistake could make your brown rice gummy, overcooked or uncooked. Follow these step-by-step guidelines to make brown rice in an instant pot.
Place the brown rice, water (broth or stock), and oil or butter (optional) in the Instant Pot. Add salt if using water.
Cover with the lid, then turn the Venting Knob to Sealing Position and cook for 15 minutes on high pressure.
Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally. If you are short of time, you can allow it to release naturally for 5 minutes and then quickly release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the lid of the Instant Pot and fluff the brown rice with a fork. Enjoy immediately.
Instant Pot Cooking Tips
An instant pot comes with both a natural and quick-release feature. The natural release allows the pressure to release slowly, while the quick release is faster. The pressure you apply depends on the type of rice you use.
Long-grain rice is a bit dry and has less starch. Allow the rice to ”naturally release” pressure if you are cooking long-grain rice. It gives the rice ample time to soak up moisture for a tender finish.
Short-grain rice has more starch and is quick to get soft and sticky. If you are cooking the short grain brown rice, you can ”quick release” the pressure to avoid it from being mushy.
Brown Rice to Water Ratio
You need 1 cup of water for 1 cup of long-grain brown rice. You can double this recipe. You’ll have the following:
1 cup brown rice + 1 cup water
1 1/2 cups brown rice + 1 1/2 cups water
2 cups brown rice + 2 cups water
2 1/2 cups brown rice + 2 1/2 cups water
3 cups brown rice + 3 cups water
How to Rinse Brown Rice
Place the brown rice in a fine mesh strainer over a bowl. Then, run it under cold water. Keep rinsing and changing the water until the water in the bowl runs clear. Rinsing the rice removes the dirt and excess starches that make the rice gummy.
Troubleshooting
My rice is mushy; how can I fix it?
While you may be unable to fix mushy rice, you can learn from the error to improve your next meal. If your rice is mushy, you probably added too much water, didn’t fluff the rice after cooking, or used the instant pot’s quick-release feature. It would be helpful if you avoid this next time you cook.
My rice is hard and uncooked; what can I do?
If the rice is hard, you probably didn’t add enough water, or the rice is too much for the instant pot. If the water isn’t enough, you can still add a bit of water to improve the texture.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Brown Rice
Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months. Ensure that you let it cool before storing it.
To reheat it in the microwave, allow the frozen brown rice to thaw in the fridge overnight. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly, but it will take longer. Microwave the rice in a microwave-safe container and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture in the rice and avoid drying out.
How to Use Brown Rice
Brown rice is a versatile dish. Serve with the following:
Brown rice is rich in fiber and highly nutritious. Make ahead this simple recipe and enjoy fluffy instant pot brown rice on busy weeknights. Serve it with Ata din-din, Chicken stew, or beef stew.
Place the brown rice, water (broth or stock), and oil or butter (optional) in the Instant Pot. Add salt if using water.
Cover with the lid, then turn the Venting Knob to Sealing Position and cook for 15 minutes on high pressure.
Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally. If you are short of time, you can allow it to release naturally for 5 minutes and then quick release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the lid of the Instant Pot and fluff the brown rice with a fork. Enjoy immediately.
Let’s Connect! You can find me on Facebook, and Instagram. I love keeping in touch with all of you! If you make this recipe, I’d love to see pictures of your creations on Instagram or Facebook. #cheflolaskitchen
