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Instant Pot Basmati Rice

Make authentic Instant Pot Basmati Rice with this foolproof recipe. Packed with rich traditional flavor, step-by-step photos, and cooking tips by Denisiya on EatMee Recipes.

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By DenisiyaPublished on April 16, 2025
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Instant Pot Basmati Rice
⏱️
Prep Time15 mins
🍳
Cook Time22 mins
⌛
Total Time37 mins
🍽️
ServingsServes 2
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This Recipe Serves 2

How to Make Perfect Basmati Rice in an Instant Pot

Basmati rice is a long-grain rice variety known for its fragrant aroma and delicate, fluffy texture. Whether you’re making a side dish, biryani, or serving it with curry, cooking basmati rice can sometimes be tricky to get just right. But with the Instant Pot, it’s a breeze! In just a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly cooked basmati rice every time, with minimal effort.

Here’s a quick and easy guide to making basmati rice in your Instant Pot.

Why Use the Instant Pot Duo Easy for Basmati Rice?

The Instant Pot Duo Easy takes the guesswork out of cooking basmati rice. It creates the perfect conditions for the rice to steam evenly, giving you tender, fluffy grains every time. Plus, it’s fast – what would take you 20-30 minutes on the stovetop can now be done in just 10 minutes of pressure cooking, with no stirring or babysitting needed.

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Ingredients

Scale:
Base Yield: Serves 2
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Step-by-Step Instructions

21 Steps
  1. Step 1

    Firstly, bring out the Basmati rice. I’m using the Tastic brand, but the Woolworths brand is also my go to.

    Step 1 visual guide
  2. Step 2

    Add the rice to a bowl.

    Step 2 visual guide
  3. Step 3

    Rinse the rice several times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming too sticky or gummy.

    Step 3 visual guide
  4. Step 4

    Today I am using my Instant Pot Duo Easy, however, other Instant Pots can be used.

    Step 4 visual guide
  5. Step 5

    Plug in the Instant Pot, it should display “OFF” on the screen.

    Step 5 visual guide
  6. Step 6

    Open the lid and add the vegetable oil into the inner stainless-steel pot. This will prevent the rice from sticking to the surface.

    Step 6 visual guide
  7. Step 7

    Add in the washed rice.

    Step 7 visual guide
  8. Step 8

    Next, pour in the water and add salt to taste.

    Step 8 visual guide
  9. Step 9

    Secure the lid and move the anti-blockage vent (steam release lever) to “SEAL”.

    Step 9 visual guide
  10. Step 10

    Press the “Rice” button.

    Step 10 visual guide
  11. Step 11

    Turn the silver knob to adjust the time to 00:06 (6 minutes).

    Step 11 visual guide
  12. Step 12

    Press the “Start” (Play) button and leave the Instant Pot to do the rest.

    Step 12 visual guide
  13. Step 13

    Once the pressure builds up, the “float valve” will pop up – when it pops up, do not attempt to open the lid!

  14. Step 14

    After the 6 minutes are over, the screen should display “L0:00”.

    Step 14 visual guide
  15. Step 15

    Do not press “CANCEL” on your Instant Pot, allow it to “Natural Release for 5 minutes.

    Step 15 visual guide
  16. Step 16

    Once the 5 minutes are done, press “Cancel” (X button).

    Step 16 visual guide
  17. Step 17

    Move the anti-blockage vent (steam release lever) to “VENT” to allow the remaining pressure to release.

    Step 17 visual guide
  18. Step 18

    Once the “float valve” sinks in, it is safe to open the lid.

    Step 18 visual guide
  19. Step 19

    Use a fork to fluff up the rice and you may empty it into a serving dish.

    Step 19 visual guide
  20. Step 20

    The Basmati rice should be perfectly cooked.

    Step 20 visual guide
  21. Step 21

    I served it with some Instant Pot Trotters And Beans Curry.

    Step 21 visual guide
Video Tutorial

Watch How It's Made

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Frequently Asked Questions & Cooking Tips

Expert kitchen guidance and troubleshooting for making the best Instant Pot Basmati Rice

Why Use the Instant Pot Duo Easy for Basmati Rice?

The Instant Pot Duo Easy takes the guesswork out of cooking basmati rice. It creates the perfect conditions for the rice to steam evenly, giving you tender, fluffy grains every time. Plus, it’s fast – what would take you 20-30 minutes on the stovetop can now be done in just 10 minutes of pressure cooking, with no stirring or babysitting needed.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy in Instant Pot Basmati Rice?

Always par-boil your basmati rice with whole spices until it is only about 70% cooked (firm with a slight bite). The rice finishes steaming to fluffy perfection during the layered dum (steaming) stage.

Can I marinate the meat the day before?

Yes, marinating the meat overnight in yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices tenderizes the meat and allows the deep aromatic flavors to permeate fully before cooking.

Denisiya - Founder & Chef at EatMee Recipes
About the Creator

Meet Denisiya

Hi, I'm Denisiya! Food lover, recipe developer, and founder of EatMee Recipes. I specialize in authentic South African Durban Indian cuisine, comforting curries, and modern Instant Pot adaptations. Every recipe on this site is tested in my personal kitchen to ensure you get mouth-watering, foolproof results every time.

Read Full Story →Get in Touch

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