Instant Pot long grain white rice is light, fluffy, and simple to prepare. In just 15 minutes, this gluten free, hands free recipe will deliver the perfect rice to pair with any of your favorite dishes!
By adding just a cup of long grain rice and one and a quarter cups of water to the Instant Pot, it cooks perfectly with minimal effort.
The rice setting and proper water ratio ensure the grains turn out separate and fluffy, making it a great base for a range of dishes.
This staple food is enjoyed around the world and fits well in both sweet and savory recipes.
Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch for a better texture, and using a fork to fluff after cooking keeps the grains from sticking together.
Experimenting with broth instead of water can add even more flavor to the finished dish.
What is Long Grain White Rice?
Long grain white rice features slender grains that are about four to five times longer than they are wide.
Its structure helps it cook up light and fluffy rather than sticky.
This rice is often rinsed before cooking, which removes extra starch and keeps the grains separate.
| Types of Long-Grain Rice | Unique Features |
|---|---|
| Jasmine rice | Delicate aroma, slightly sticky |
| Basmati rice | Nutty flavor, very fluffy |
| Brown rice (long-grain) | Chewy, more fiber |
| Wild rice | Earthy, firm texture |
Long grain white rice is popular in pilafs, salads, and stir-fries.
After cooking, they recommend using a fork to fluff the rice for the best texture.
For added flavor, broth can be used instead of water.
What do I use Long Grain White Rice for?
Long grain white rice works well in a variety of dishes and recipes.
It is often used as an easy side dish, pairing nicely with meats, vegetables, or casseroles. Because it stays light and separate when cooked, it is ideal for fried rice, rice pilaf, and many Asian dishes.
This type of rice is also used in rice salads and rice soups. It makes a good base for dishes like rice and beans or stuffed bell peppers.
For something sweet, it can be used to make rice pudding. Some people enjoy turning it into coconut rice by cooking it with coconut milk.
The table below gives a few ways to use long grain white rice in different rice recipes:
| Use | Example Dish |
|---|---|
| Side Dish | Rice pilaf, coconut rice |
| Main Ingredient | Fried rice, casseroles |
| Dessert | Rice pudding |
| Soup or Salad Add-in | Rice soup, rice salad |
Is Long Grain White Rice Healthy?
Long grain white rice offers a simple and filling source of carbohydrates.
It has a small amount of protein and fiber, but much of its original nutrition is lost during processing, which removes the bran and germ.
While it is less nutrient-rich compared to brown rice, it can still be part of a balanced meal.
A helpful approach is to pair rice with other foods.
Some healthy serving ideas include:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Beans or legumes
- Curries, soups, or stews
| Nutrient | Amount (per cup, cooked) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | High |
| Protein | Low |
| Fiber | Low |
To keep rice fluffy and less sticky, rinse before cooking and use a fork to fluff once cooked.
Adding broth instead of water can boost flavor without changing nutrition.
What Seasonings are Good in Long Grain White Rice?
Seasoning long grain white rice can enhance its aroma and make it more enjoyable with a variety of meals.
Popular choices include garlic, which gives a savory boost, and onions—either fresh or as onion powder—for extra flavor.
Fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and cilantro are easy to mix in with the water before cooking for a fragrant touch.
Spices like cumin, turmeric, and paprika add both color and depth.
If a richer taste is wanted, replacing some or all of the cooking water with chicken or vegetable broth is a simple switch.
Coconut milk can be used for a creamy, slightly sweet flavor.
A small amount of butter or olive oil stirred in after cooking gives the rice a soft texture and mild taste.
To keep the rice fluffy, use a fork to fluff after cooking.
Always rinse the rice before starting for best results.
| Seasoning | Type | When to Add |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic | Fresh/Minced | Before cooking |
| Onion/Onion Powder | Fresh/Powder | Before cooking |
| Herbs | Fresh/Dried | Before cooking |
| Spices | Ground | Before cooking |
| Broth | Liquid | Replace water |
| Coconut Milk | Liquid | Replace water |
| Butter/Olive Oil | Fat | After cooking |
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked; be sure to rinse rice well before cooking)
- 1 1/4 cup water, or use vegetable broth or beef broth for extra flavor
- Optional: A sprinkle of salt, if desired
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Long grain rice | 1 cup | Rinse before use for best results |
| Water or broth | 1 1/4 cups | Vegetable or beef broth for more taste |
How to Make
To cook long grain white rice in an Instant Pot, begin by rinsing the rice in a fine mesh sieve under cool water. This helps to remove extra starch, ensuring the rice will be fluffy rather than sticky.
Measure 1 cup of rice and add it to the Instant Pot, then pour in 1 1/4 cups of water (or broth for added flavor).
Stir the mixture gently, then place the lid on and secure it by turning the valve to sealing.
Set the Instant Pot to the “rice” setting, choose low pressure, and cook for 8 minutes.
When the cooking time is complete, use a quick release to let out the remaining pressure.
Fluff the finished rice gently with a fork instead of a spoon to prevent clumping.
Serve as is or include in other recipes.
Avoid over-stirring during preparation, as this can make the rice too sticky.
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prep | Rinse rice & add water | Use broth for more flavor |
| Cook | 8 min on rice setting, quick release | Low pressure; don’t over-stir |
| Finish | Fluff with fork, serve | Fluffing keeps rice light and fluffy |
Tips and Recipe Notes
For perfectly cooked rice every time, start by rinsing the rice before cooking.
This removes dust and excess starch, which helps make the rice fluffy instead of sticky.
After it’s cooked, they should use a fork (not a spoon) to fluff the rice and separate the grains gently.
It’s helpful not to over stir the uncooked rice after adding it to the pot—just give it a quick mix, seal the lid, and let the Instant Pot do the work.
Too much stirring can add extra starch and make rice gummy.
For extra flavor in meal prep, water can be replaced with broth.
| Liquid Option | Flavor Level |
|---|---|
| Water | Mild/Plain |
| Broth | Savory/Richer |
How to Store
Cooked rice should be stored properly to keep it fresh and safe to eat. After cooking, let the rice cool down at room temperature.
Place it in airtight containers or Ziploc bags while the rice is still warm to help keep in moisture. For the best results, put the containers in the freezer right away.
Frozen rice can last up to 2 months and will taste fresher when reheated.
If you plan to eat leftover rice soon, storing it in the refrigerator is an option. Use an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Be aware the rice may be a bit drier when you reheat it.
To reheat rice, simply microwave it straight from the freezer or fridge. Adding a splash of water and covering it can help restore moisture.
For easy viewing, here’s a quick table:
| Storage Method | Container Type | Max Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freezer | Airtight/Ziplock | 2 months | Best for freshness |
| Refrigerator | Airtight | 3 days | May reheat drier |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water should I add for cooking 2 cups of long grain white rice in an Instant Pot?
For 2 cups of long grain white rice, add 2½ cups of water. This is based on a standard ratio of 1 cup of rice to 1¼ cups of water.
Using the right amount of water is important for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
How long does it take to cook long grain white rice in an Instant Pot?
It usually takes about 8 minutes on a low-pressure rice setting for cooking long grain white rice in the Instant Pot.
After the timer goes off, use a quick release to release any remaining pressure. In total, including the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure, expect the process to take around 20–25 minutes.
What are the best practices for cooking long grain white rice in an Instant Pot according to Amy and Jacky?
Amy and Jacky recommend the following best practices:
- Rinse the rice to remove excess starch and debris.
- Add both rice and water to the Instant Pot and give a quick stir—avoid over stirring.
- Use the correct rice-to-water ratio.
- After cooking, use a fork to fluff the rice instead of a spoon.
- For more flavor, use broth instead of water.
Is there a specific rice-to-water ratio recommended for long grain white rice in an Instant Pot?
Yes, a commonly used ratio is 1 cup of rice to 1¼ cups of water. This ratio helps ensure that the rice comes out fluffy, not sticky.
If you prefer softer rice, a small amount of extra water (such as 2 tablespoons per cup) can be added.
How does the Instant Pot rice setting work for long grain white rice?
The rice setting on the Instant Pot is designed to cook long grain white rice at low pressure for optimum results. Using this setting, the Instant Pot adjusts the cooking time automatically, which helps cook the rice evenly.
It usually takes about 8 minutes on this setting for long grain white rice.
Are there any health benefits to cooking long grain white rice in an Instant Pot?
Cooking rice in an Instant Pot can be healthier because it reduces the need for added oils or fats.
The sealed environment also helps retain more nutrients compared to some traditional cooking methods.
Rinsing the rice before cooking can lower excess starch, which is helpful for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.
Instant Pot Long Grain White Rice
Equipment
- 1 Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Long grain white rice
- 1 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
Instructions
- Rinse the rice using a fine mesh sieve to remove any dust and extra starch.
- Combine the rinsed rice and water in the Instant Pot. Stir once, then secure the lid and make sure the valve is set to sealing.
- Select the rice button or set it to the low-pressure setting for 8 minutes.
- When the timer is up, do a quick release to let out the steam.
- Open the lid and use a fork to fluff the rice. Serve immediately or add to other Instant Pot recipes.
This simple recipe works great!