Instant Pot Basmati Rice

Jump to Recipe

Cooking Instant Pot basmati rice is a game-changer! This method gives you light, fluffy, and perfectly tender grains—no more sticky or gluey rice. It’s so effortless and foolproof that I’ve completely ditched stovetop cooking, and once you try it, you probably will too!

Two white bowls of Instant Pot Rice with a stack of white plates, striped cloth, and golden serving spoon at the background.

Content Covered Here

What is Basmati Rice?

Basmati rice is a long-grain, aromatic rice variety known for its light, fluffy texture and distinct nutty flavor. Native to the Indian subcontinent, it’s prized for its ability to stay separate and non-sticky when cooked.

Basmati’s signature fragrance and delicate taste elevate any meal, whether paired with a bold, spicy dish like our blackened chicken tenders or enjoyed alone. It’s perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions!

Love rice? We have more recipes! Learn how to cook brown rice in Instant Pot, fried rice with chicken and shrimp , Instant Pot rice-a-roni, coconut rice Instant Pot recipe, Blackstone chicken fried rice, jasmine rice in Instant Pot, and teriyaki chicken pineapple bowls.

Why We Love This Basmati Rice Instant Pot Recipe

Perfect texture every time
No more guessing how to cook basmati rice in Instant Pot! This method ensures light, fluffy, and separate grains—never sticky or mushy.
Quick and hands-free
Using the rice setting or manual pressure cooking makes cooking basmati rice effortless. Just set it and let the Instant Pot do the work!
Foolproof and versatile
Whether for curries, meal prep, or stir-fries, this basmati rice Instant Pot recipe delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time.

Labeled ingredients for basmati rice recipe.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Basmati rice: You can use any long-grain.
Butter: You can substitute with olive oil.
Broth: We use low-sodium chicken broth, but you can also use vegetable broth.

Recipe Variations

There are so many delicious ways to switch up this recipe! Here are a few of our favorite variations:

For an aromatic option, add garlic, onion, or other aromatics during sautéing for extra flavor.
Add protein to make it a complete meal. Tasty options include cooked chicken, hibachi shrimp, shredded pork, or tofu for a complete meal.
Stir in some frozen or canned vegetables. I recommend frozen peas or diced carrots, or canned green beans. Preheat them in the microwave first, then add them after pressure cooking is complete.
Add a spice like turmeric, garam masala, or cumin for extra flavor.

Equipment Used in this Recipe

Instant Pot – or other electric pressure cooker
Mesh strainer

How to Cook Basmati Rice in Instant Pot

Rinse. The first step is to rinse and drain the rice well and then set it aside to drain completely.
Sauté. Set the pressure cooker to sauté. Add butter or oil to the pot and let it heat.

A wooden spoon putting a butter in the Instant Pot.

Once the pot is ready, add the grains and sauté until the it turns golden (3-5 minutes).

Deglaze the pot. Add the broth to the pot, and stir to mix and deglaze the pot. Press cancel to end sauté when done.

Pressure cook. Close and seal the lid, and turn the vent to seal (if needed). Set the pot manually to high pressure for 4 minutes.

Cooked Basmati Rice in an Instant Pot with a wooden spoon.

Ready to serve. When the pressure cooking time is complete, do a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This means leaving the pot undisturbed. Then, perform a quick release by carefully turning or pressing the pressure release lever or button (refer to your pot’s instructions).
Fluff before serving by stirring it.

🎯 TFN Pro Tip

Always rinse it until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This prevents sticky or clumpy grains. For extra flavor, cook it with a bay leaf, a pinch of salt, or a splash of broth instead of water. Fluff with a fork after cooking for the best texture!

A white bowl of Instant Pot Rice ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot Basmati Rice is the perfect side dish for so many meals! If you’re wondering how to cook basmati rice in Instant Pot for meal prep or everyday dinners, this recipe makes it effortless. It’s a great base for butter chicken, classic curries, or even a simple veggie stir-fry.

For a comforting, home-cooked meal, try it with sour cream pork chops recipe, pork chops buttermilk, meatballs in sweet chili sauce. Its light, fluffy texture balances out hearty proteins, making it a go-to side for everything from Bisquick oven baked chicken to beef chuck roast Crock Pot. You can even toss it with Blackstone vegetables or chicken tenderloins baked in oven for a healthy and satisfying dish.

If you prefer a nuttier, slightly chewier option, you can easily swap in brown basmati rice using the same basmati rice Instant Pot method, just with a longer cook time. No matter what you serve it with, this recipe guarantees perfect every time!

Two white bowls of Instant Pot Basmati Rice with a stack of white plates and golden serving spoon at the background.

Recipe FAQs

What is the ratio of basmati rice to water?

I find that the perfect pressure cooker ratio is 1:1, which means that for every cup of rice, you’ll need one cup of water. But if you’re a fan of softer, stickier rice, increase the amount of water to 1 1/4 cups.

Should basmati be soaked before cooking?

No, you don’t need to soak it before cooking rice. However, rinsing and draining it well before cooking will help keep it from sticking.

Why is my basmati rice mushy?

If it’s mushy, it’s likely because you’ve cooked it too long, did not do a quick release, or used too much water. Do not cook for more than 6 minutes. And use the proper ratio (see above) of liquid when cooking.

How do I make it not sticky?

If it’s sticky, it’s likely because you didn’t rinse it thoroughly. Rinse until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

How do I store this?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container. Reheat the leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. You can also freeze rice for up to 3 months (see below for how to freeze rice).

If you want to meal prep or make this recipe ahead of time, cook a big batch and portion it out into individual containers.

Can I freeze this?

Yes, you can store it in your freezer for up to three months. Defrost it in the fridge or microwave or at room temperature before reheating.
To reheat, microwave or heat it on the stovetop (with 2 tablespoons of water) until thoroughly reheated.

Looking for more side dishes?

If you tried this Instant Pot basmati rice recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Thanks for visiting!