Try this instant pot basmati rice method and you’ll get perfectly cooked, fluffy, separated rice grains and not mushy every single time. It requires no soaking and gets ready in 20 minutes only.
1 ¼cupWater*check out rice to water ration below in the notes
1teaspoonOilor ghee
½teaspoonSalt
Instructions
Rinse Basmati Rice: Take basmati rice in a bowl and add some water to it and massage the grains lightly by rubbing between fingers and thumb.
After massaging the water will turn cloudy. Drain this water and again add water and repeat massaging and rinsing process two-three times.
Continue rinsing until the water is not cloudy anymore and looks almost clear. Drain the water using a colander.
To Cook Basmati Rice In Instant Pot, take rinsed, drained basmati rice in instant pot liner. Add salt, oil, and water. Stir once.
Cover the cooker with a lid and keep the valve to a sealing position. Pressure cook on manual (high pressure) for 4 minutes.
Once the instant pot beeps (cooking time is done), do QPR (quick pressure release) aka manually release the pressure by positioning the valve from sealing to venting.
Then open the lid and let the rice rest for 5 minutes uncovered . (OR rest the rice covered for 10 minutes). After resting time, fluff up the rice using a fork or wooden spoon.
Notes
*Rice to water ratio:
1:1 for super al dente rice. Some Indian restaurants served this kind of al dente rice. This texture is not recommended for daily basis consumption as al dente rice will cause gas, bloating, and indigestion.
1:1.25 for a soft yet firm enough texture (as shown in the picture).
1:1.5 for super soft and slightly mushy texture (perfect for small kids and toddlers who are learning to use a spoon. As slightly mushy rice will stick to the spoon and won’t make a mess.)
Rinsing step is a must. This step removes dirt, impurities, and polishing material (if it is used). Also, reduces the starch and gives non-sticky rice grains.Resting time after cooking is also a must. During this resting time, rice grains will get a chance to firm up and will not break or mush as you fluff up. While if you fluff up the piping hot rice right after opening the lid, they have a high chance of getting mushy.