How to Cook Brown Rice in the Instant Pot

I only cook brown rice in the Instant Pot these days. Once I nailed down the perfect cooking time, I didn’t look back. Making brown rice in the Instant Pot is easy, fluffy, and perfect every time.

Once I learned how to make rice in the Instant Pot, I gave away my rice cooker. The Instant Pot does the job just right every time! Here is how I get perfectly cooked brown rice from the Instant Pot.

What is the Rice/Broth Ratio?

For brown rice, use a 1:1 1/4 ratio when cooking in the Instant Pot.

You can scale the amount you want to make up and down as much as you want. Here’s the scale for cooking different amounts:

• 1 cups rice to 1.25 cups liquid
• 2 cups rice to 2.5 cups liquid
• 3 cups rice to 3.75 cups liquid

Important Tip: Do not fill your Instant Pot more than halfway with the rice and liquid. This prevents excessive foaming that can block the mechanisms in the lid.

Should I Use Broth or Water for the Liquid?

Either one will work! Most of the times, I prefer to use broth or stock. It adds more flavor without any extra work.

Do I Use Quick Release or Natural Release?

It’s really important you use at least a 10 minute natural release when making Instant Pot brown rice. This means, don’t nudge the release valve to vent any of the pressure until 10 minutes after it’s cook time is done.

Can I Freeze Cooked Rice?

Most people don’t realize this but YES! You can freeze cooked rice! We’ve written a whole article on how to freeze rice here. Be sure to read up if you plan to make a bunch of brown rice.

What Recipes Use Brown Rice?

Here are some delicious recipes that use brown rice:

VEGETARIAN TORTILLA SOUP

Toss in your cooked rice at the end of making this popular (and super easy!) vegetarian soup.

MAKE AHEAD LUNCH WRAPS

Throw your cooked rice in these wraps for a hearty and healthy lunch. I have these in the freezer often!

FRIED RICE WITH SWEET SOY SAUCE

If using previously frozen cooked rice for this recipe, be sure to add in a little chicken broth for moisture.

Want More Freezer Meals for the Instant Pot?

We’ve got you covered. Hop over to this post highlighting 20+ Best of the Best Freezer Meals for the Instant Pot. It includes freezer meal instructions for EVERY recipe plus tons of pro tips and tricks we’ve learned over the years.

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