The easiest and most foolproof way to make rice in an Instant Pot is:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Add rinsed rice and an equal amount of water to the Instant Pot (a 1:1 rice to water ratio).
- Optionally add 1 tablespoon olive oil and ½ teaspoon salt for flavor.
- Lock the lid and set the steam valve to "sealing."
- Cook on high pressure for 3 to 5 minutes (typically 3-4 minutes for white rice).
- Allow a natural pressure release for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve.
This method works well for jasmine, basmati, and other white rice varieties. Brown rice and wild rice require different cooking times but the same 1:1 water to rice ratio under pressure. This approach is hands-off, quick, and yields fluffy, tender rice without the need to watch the pot or guess cooking times.