The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Instant Pot Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, Fragrant, and Foolproof

Are you wondering how to cook jasmine rice in Instant Pot without the hassle of constantly monitoring a stovetop? This incredibly simple method guarantees you’ll achieve light, fluffy, and wonderfully aromatic jasmine rice every single time. Utilizing the Instant Pot, or any electric pressure cooker, removes all the guesswork from timing and water ratios, establishing itself as the easiest and most reliable way to prepare this versatile, naturally gluten-free side dish. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll consistently have the ideal base for an endless array of your favorite meals!

If your quest is for the ultimate jasmine rice Instant Pot recipe, look no further – you’ve arrived at the perfect destination. This foolproof approach is not only quick and consistent but also consistently delivers soft, perfectly fluffy grains in mere minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook managing a busy schedule or entirely new to the world of pressure cooking, this recipe demystifies the process, making it incredibly simple to enjoy impeccably cooked rice.

Cooking jasmine rice in an Instant Pot also offers a distinct advantage: it locks in moisture and delicate flavor in a way that traditional stovetop methods often struggle to replicate. The gentle, even steaming provided by pressure cooking results in a texture that is slightly sticky yet tender, making it an exquisite accompaniment for everything from rich curries and vibrant stir-fries to succulent grilled meats. It even serves as a delightful base for certain desserts. Once you experience the effortless perfection of this Instant Pot method, it’s highly probable it will become your undisputed go-to for rice preparation!

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Jasmine Rice Recipe

This Instant Pot Jasmine Rice recipe isn’t just another way to cook rice; it’s a culinary revelation that simplifies mealtime and elevates your dining experience. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

Effortless Perfection Every Time

• Unwavering Consistency: Say goodbye to burnt bottoms, mushy grains, or undercooked kernels. The Instant Pot’s precise pressure and temperature control ensure your jasmine rice is cooked to perfection, consistently yielding light, separate, and fluffy grains with that signature delicate aroma. It truly takes the guesswork out of rice cooking, making it reliable even for novice cooks.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Unlike stovetop methods that demand constant supervision to prevent boiling over or scorching, the Instant Pot allows for a truly hands-off experience. Simply set it and forget it! This frees you up to focus on preparing your main dish or simply enjoying a few moments of peace before dinner.

Unmatched Versatility

• The Perfect Companion for Any Meal: One of the best qualities of jasmine rice is its incredible versatility. Its light, delicate flavor profile makes it an ideal side dish that complements almost any cuisine. From spicy Thai curries and savory Chinese stir-fries to hearty American grilled chicken or even sweet, comforting rice puddings, jasmine rice adapts beautifully without overpowering other flavors.
• Naturally Gluten-Free: For those following a gluten-free diet, jasmine rice is a fantastic staple. This recipe ensures a pure, unadulterated side dish that fits seamlessly into various dietary needs without compromise on taste or texture.

A Time-Saving Kitchen Essential

• Ideal for Meal Prep: This rice stores and reheats exceptionally well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can easily cook a larger batch, portion it into bowls, and enjoy perfectly textured rice throughout the week. A splash of water or broth before reheating helps maintain its moisture and fluffiness. This saves valuable time during busy weekdays, ensuring wholesome meals are always within reach.
• Quick Weeknight Dinners: With a total active cooking time of just a few minutes, plus pressure build-up and release, you can have fresh, hot rice ready faster than ever. This speed is a game-changer for quick weeknight meals, transforming complex dinner ideas into simple, achievable feasts.

Do you love easy rice recipes? Don’t stop here! Be sure to try our Instant Pot Basmati Rice recipe, learn How to Cook Brown Rice in an Instant Pot, or explore our Instant Pot Wild Rice. For a complete meal, check out our amazing Pineapple Chicken Bowls with Fried Rice.

Essential Ingredients for Flawless Jasmine Rice

Crafting perfect Instant Pot Jasmine Rice requires just a handful of simple ingredients. Quality matters here, as each component contributes to the final flavor and texture.

• Jasmine Rice: The star of our show! We specifically love jasmine rice for its characteristic floral aroma, tender yet slightly firm texture, and distinct elongated grains. It cooks beautifully to a light and fluffy consistency. When selecting, look for high-quality, unbroken grains for the best results. While jasmine rice is preferred, this method also works well with other long-grain white rice varieties, though the cook time might need minor adjustments.
• Butter (or Olive Oil): A small amount of butter adds a wonderfully rich, subtle flavor and helps to prevent the rice grains from sticking together, resulting in a more luscious texture. For a dairy-free or vegan option, unsalted butter can be easily swapped for an equal amount of olive oil or any neutral cooking oil.
• Broth (Chicken or Vegetable) or Water: We recommend using low-sodium chicken broth to infuse the rice with an extra layer of savory flavor. However, vegetable broth works just as well for a vegan-friendly version, or you can simply use water for a more neutral base, allowing the natural aroma of the jasmine rice to shine through. The 1:1 ratio is crucial here for perfect absorption and texture.

Flavorful Variations to Explore

While delicious on its own, your Instant Pot Jasmine Rice can be easily customized to fit your taste or meal theme. Here are some simple ways to add a twist:

• Aromatic Garlic Infusion: For a delightful savory base, sauté 1-2 minced garlic cloves in the pot with the butter or oil before adding the rice. This will create a fragrant and flavorful rice that pairs well with almost any savory dish.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: Easily convert this recipe to be completely vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and opting for olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
• Nutrient-Boosting Veggies: Stir in some pre-cooked, finely diced vegetables like peas, corn, or carrots after the rice is cooked and fluffed. This adds color, texture, and extra nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even some diced jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat) to the pot along with the broth.
• Fresh Herb Brightness: Just before serving, stir in a handful of freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or basil. This adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
• Creamy Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist, partially substitute some of the liquid with canned coconut milk. Use 1 cup of coconut milk and 1 cup of broth/water for a richer, fragrant result. Adjust salt to taste.
• Sweet Rice Pudding Base: Want a dessert? Use the cooked jasmine rice as a delightful base for a rice pudding by adding milk, a cinnamon stick, a touch of brown sugar, and raisins, then simmering gently until creamy.

Recommended Equipment

To master this Instant Pot Jasmine Rice recipe, you’ll need just a couple of essential kitchen tools:

• Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker): This is the star of the show. Any model or brand of electric pressure cooker will work for this recipe, ensuring consistent, perfectly cooked rice every time.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: Crucial for effectively rinsing the rice. A fine mesh allows water to pass through easily while keeping the small grains contained, ensuring you remove excess starch for the best texture.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Jasmine Rice in Instant Pot

Achieving perfectly fluffy and aromatic jasmine rice in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for consistent success:

1. Rinsing the Rice Thoroughly:
   Begin by placing your jasmine rice in a fine mesh colander. Rinse the rice under cold running water, stirring it gently with your hand, until the water runs clear. This process, which usually takes a couple of minutes and several rinses, is crucial for removing excess surface starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming overly sticky or gummy. Once rinsed, allow the rice to drain well while you prepare the Instant Pot.

2. Quick Sauté for Flavor & Texture:
   Place the inner pot back into your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Allow the pot to heat up for a minute or two until it displays “Hot.” Add the butter (or olive oil) to the heated pot and let it melt. Once melted, add the rinsed and drained jasmine rice. Sauté the rice for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This light sautéing step toasts the grains slightly, enhancing their nutty flavor and helping them maintain their individual structure, leading to an even fluffier result. After 3 minutes, press “Cancel” to end the sauté function.

3. Pressure Cook to Perfection:
   Pour the chicken or vegetable broth (or water) into the pot with the sautéed rice. Give it a gentle stir to combine and ensure any browned bits from the bottom of the pot are scraped up (this is called deglazing and helps prevent a “burn” notice). Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the sealing ring is properly in place. Turn the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position (or press the vent lever to seal, depending on your model). Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting on HIGH pressure and set the cooking time for 4 minutes.

4. Natural Release and Fluffing for Optimal Texture:
   Once the 4-minute pressure cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep and switch to “Keep Warm.” Do NOT open the lid immediately. Instead, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This “natural pressure release” (NPR) is vital as it allows the rice to fully absorb the remaining moisture and finish cooking gently, preventing it from drying out or becoming overly sticky. After 10 minutes of NPR, carefully turn the steam release valve to the “Venting” position (or press the pressure release button) for a quick release of any remaining pressure. Once the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid. Use a fork or rice paddle to gently stir and fluff the Jasmine rice in Instant Pot before serving. This aerates the grains and enhances their fluffy texture.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Jasmine Rice

This perfectly cooked Instant Pot Jasmine Rice is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal companion for a wide variety of main dishes and complementary sides. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to inspire your next meal:

• Classic Protein Pairings: Serve it alongside simple yet flavorful baked chicken tenderloins, pan-seared fish, or juicy grilled pork chops.
• Vegetarian Delights: It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a rich lentil stew, or a vibrant vegetable curry.
• Asian-Inspired Feasts: For an authentic Asian-inspired meal, serve it as the base for Blackstone griddle fried rice (adding fresh rice at the end), alongside aromatic Thai curries, savory stir-fries, or a comforting bowl of stovetop soup.
• Instant Pot Favorites: If you’re a fan of pressure cooker recipes, this jasmine rice is the perfect accompaniment to Hawaiian Huli Huli chicken (a personal favorite!), zesty Instant Pot chicken verde, tender Instant Pot chicken tenders, or succulent pork chops cooked in the pressure cooker.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about cooking jasmine rice in your Instant Pot, along with helpful answers to ensure your success:

What is the ideal water-to-rice ratio for Instant Pot Jasmine Rice?

For this foolproof pressure cooker recipe, the perfect ratio is 1 cup of liquid (water or broth) to 1 cup of jasmine rice. This 1:1 ratio consistently yields perfectly cooked, fluffy, and tender grains every time. It’s a key difference from stovetop methods, which often require more liquid due to evaporation.

Why might my Instant Pot Jasmine Rice be sticky?

If your rice turns out excessively sticky, there are usually two primary culprits. First, you might have used too much water. Always stick to the 1:1 ratio. Second, you might not have rinsed the rice thoroughly enough before cooking. Rinsing is crucial for washing away excess surface starch, which is the main cause of stickiness. Be sure to rinse until the water runs completely clear.

How long should I rinse jasmine rice?

You should rinse the jasmine grains for at least 30 seconds, continuously moving them under cold running water. Continue rinsing them several times until the water that drains away is completely clear, indicating that most of the excess starch has been removed.

How do I store leftover Instant Pot Jasmine Rice?

Cooked jasmine rice leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, you can use either a microwave or the stovetop. When reheating, it’s always a good idea to add a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the rice and keep it moist and fluffy. If using the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the rice from drying out.

Can I freeze cooked Instant Pot Jasmine Rice?

Absolutely! Cooked jasmine rice freezes beautifully for up to three months. To freeze, ensure the rice is completely cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave as directed above, adding a small amount of liquid to prevent dryness.

Can I double or halve this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is incredibly adaptable! You can easily double or even triple the quantities while maintaining the same 1:1 rice-to-liquid ratio and the same cooking time (4 minutes on high pressure, followed by 10 minutes natural release). For halving the recipe, use 1 cup of rice and 1 cup of liquid, keeping the cooking time identical. The Instant Pot’s pressure ensures consistent cooking regardless of quantity, as long as the ratio remains constant and the pot isn’t overfilled.

What if I don’t have broth?

No problem at all! While broth adds an extra layer of flavor, plain water works perfectly fine. The jasmine rice itself has a wonderful natural aroma and subtle sweetness that shines through when cooked with just water. Simply use the same 1:1 ratio with water and consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

More Delicious Side Dish Recipes to Explore

Looking for more fantastic sides to complete your meals? Try these:

• 3-Ingredient Tomato Soup with Canned Tomatoes Recipe
• Homemade Carrot Pies
• Hearty Great Northern Bean Soup
• Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits

If you tried this jasmine rice in Instant Pot recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback helps other home cooks!

Instant Pot Jasmine Rice Recipe Card

How to Cook Jasmine Rice in Instant Pot

Renae Gerhardstein

Rating: 4.86 from 7 votes

Learn how to cook jasmine rice in Instant Pot for fluffy, fragrant rice in minutes. This easy, reliable method guarantees perfect jasmine rice Instant Pot success every time!

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Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Japanese, American, Asian

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 4 minutes

Natural Pressure Release Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 19 minutes (plus pressure build-up)

Equipment

• Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
• Fine mesh strainer

Ingredients

• 2 cups Jasmine rice (or any long grain rice)
• 2 tablespoons butter (can substitute olive oil for vegan)
• 2 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth/water)

Instructions

1. Rinse and drain rice well under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.
2. Set pressure cooker to sauté. Add butter or oil to the pot. Once the pot is hot, add the rinsed jasmine rice and sauté for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Press cancel to end sauté.
3. Add broth to the rice and stir gently to combine and deglaze the bottom of the pot. Close and seal the lid, ensuring the vent lever is in the “Sealing” position. Set the pot manually to high pressure for 4 minutes.
4. Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes (do not disturb the pot). After 10 minutes, carefully initiate a quick release by turning the pressure release button/lever. Once the float valve drops, open the lid. Fluff the jasmine rice by stirring with a fork or rice paddle before serving.

Notes

• Always use a 1:1 water-to-rice ratio and let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to lock in moisture. This prevents overcooking and keeps the grains soft and fluffy!

Recipe Variations:

• Add garlic: Sauté minced garlic in the pot for extra flavor.
• Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the butter (use oil).
• Add veggies: Stir in cooked veggies like peas, corn, or diced carrots before serving.
• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapenos to the pot.

Storing Instructions:

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container.
• Reheat the leftovers in the microwave or stovetop (add a splash of water or broth) before serving.
• If using the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying.

Make Ahead Instructions:

• For meal prep or making ahead, cook a big batch and portion it out into individual containers. Then store and reheat as directed above.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 115kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 54mg | Potassium: 87mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 117IU | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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