How to Cook Fluffy Brown Rice in the Instant Pot

Learn how to cook brown rice in the Instant Pot with this simple recipe. Make a batch to serve with lunch or dinner. Options for the stove, rice cooker, and slow cooker are included below.

Brown rice is a staple in our kitchen. It pairs perfectly with stir fry, roasted or sauced vegetables, shredded beef, tacos, and bowls. We prefer cooking brown rice in the Instant Pot because it takes only a few minutes to prep, cooks hands-free, and is easy to clean. It’s versatile, reheats well, and is great for meal prep—make a large batch to save time during the week.

Instant pot brown rice recipe

Follow the simple Instant Pot instructions below. Notes, nutrition, and storage tips are included further down.

How to cook brown rice

Brown rice is an easy, nutritious side dish. You can cook it in the Instant Pot, on the stove, in a rice cooker, or even in a slow cooker. Whichever method you choose, be sure to rinse and drain the rice before cooking to reduce surface starch and prevent clumping.

How to cook brown rice in the Instant Pot

Rinse and drain 2 cups uncooked long-grain brown rice. Add the rice to the Instant Pot. Season with kosher salt to taste, then stir in 2 1/2 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable broth both work). Seal the lid and set the valve. Cook on High Pressure (Manual) for 15 minutes. When the cook time ends, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. If the rice still seems moist, let it rest uncovered for 5–10 minutes to firm up slightly.

Brown rice on the stove

Bring 2 1/4 cups of water to a boil for every 1 cup of brown rice. Add the rice, cover, and reduce to low heat to simmer. Cook undisturbed for 45 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for an additional 10–15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve.

Brown rice in the rice cooker

Rinse and drain rice. For 2 cups of rinsed long-grain brown rice, add water up to the rice cooker’s 3-cup mark (about 3 cups water). Add a pinch of salt and start the cooker. Follow your rice cooker’s manufacturer instructions for best results.

Brown rice in the slow cooker

Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter. Add 2 cups rinsed and drained brown rice, 3 1/3 cups water or broth, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir, cover, and cook on High until the rice is tender and fluffy, about 2 to 4 hours depending on your slow cooker.

Do you need to rinse brown rice?

Yes. Rinse the brown rice at least once under cold water to remove excess surface starch and any dust or debris. This helps grains cook more evenly and prevents sticking.

What is the ratio of water to rice?

Accurate water-to-rice ratios give consistent results. For the Instant Pot, use 2 1/2 cups of water for every 2 cups of long-grain brown rice. For white rice in the Instant Pot, a common ratio is 2 cups water for every 2 cups rice.

What to eat with cooked brown rice

• Garlic sesame chicken stir fry
• Chipotle lime chicken taco bowl
• Chicken burrito bowls
• Skillet enchilada chicken with black beans and corn
• Ground beef and broccoli

Try this Instant Pot brown rice recipe for dinner and see how it pairs with your favorite dishes.

Kitchen tools needed for Instant Pot brown rice

• An Instant Pot or similar electric pressure cooker.
• A wooden spoon or silicone spatula for fluffing and serving.
• Bowls for serving and storage containers for leftovers.

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