Instant Pot Long Grain White Rice

Instant Pot long grain white rice cooks up light and fluffy. Simply add the rice and water then use the rice setting on your Instant Pot for perfect rice every time!

Rice is a staple food in many countries and is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. Today, I’ll help you understand more about the benefits of using long-grain white rice and how to cook it perfectly in an Instant Pot.

The Instant Pot is so helpful for making so many staple foods. Here are so other great foods to try in your Instant Pot:

• Instant Pot Chipotle Copycat Rice
• Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
• Instant Pot Fettucini
• Instant Pot Popcorn

What is Long Grain White Rice?

Long grain white rice has a long and narrow grain, especially when compared to other types of rice. Because of its unique shape, it cooks up very light and fluffy in texture, and holds its shape well after cooking. Long grain white rice is also often used in dishes such as pilaf, stir-fry, and salads because it isn’t sticky (if cooked properly).

What do I use Long Grain White Rice for?

You might be wondering, What is long grain rice best used for? Long grain white rice is a staple ingredient in many dishes. You’ll often see a recipe call for long grain rice, and I suggest you make sure you buy this type of grain instead of substituting for plain white rice or other varieties.

Here are some recipes that will work best when made with long grain white rice:

• Rice pilaf
• Fried rice
• Rice salads
• Rice pudding
• Rice soup
• Stuffed bell peppers
• Rice and beans

These recipes are probably fairly common and you’ve had many or all of them before! Next time you cook them, make sure to incorporate this Instant Pot Long Grain White Rice recipe.

Is Long Grain White Rice Healthy?

Long grain white rice is a good source of carbohydrates. It also provides a small amount of protein and fiber. However, don’t forget that white rice, by the method it is prepared, has been stripped of its nutrient-rich bran and germ. The brown shell has been removed, and this makes it less nutritious than brown rice. Rice on its own is a filling meal, but isn’t very nutrient-dense. So here are some ideas of things you can serve with your rice to make it a more complete meal:

• Grilled chicken or fish
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Instant Pot Green Beans
• Curries or stews
• Soups or broths
• Beans or legumes
• Spicy or flavorful sauces
• Beef or pork
• Jambalaya

What Seasonings are Good in Long Grain White Rice?

Long grain white rice, like many other varieties of white rice, has the ability to absorb the flavors of the seasonings and ingredients added to it. That means you can season and flavor your rice uniquely for each dish you cook. Here are a few suggestions:

• Garlic – place a few cloves (or a scoop of minced garlic) in the water and stir together before cooking.
• Onions – Chop sweet onion or onion powder, and mix it into the water before cooking.
• Herbs (basil, oregano, cilantro) – Mix them into the water before cooking.
• Spices (cumin, turmeric, paprika) – Mix them into the water before cooking.
• Chicken or vegetable broth – Replace all or some of the water with broth.
• Coconut milk – Replace all or some of the water with coconut milk
• Butter or olive oil – Stir a tablespoon in before or after cooking your rice.

Ingredients

You’ll Need:

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 1 1/4 cup water

How to Make

STEP ONE: Rinse the rice. Place in a fine mesh sieve and rinse well with cool water. Shake off the excess water.

STEP TWO: Prep the Instant Pot. Add the rice and the water to the Instant Pot. Stir and place the lid onto the Instant Pot. Turn the valve to sealing.

STEP THREE: Cook. Use the rice setting and turn to the low-pressure 8-minute setting. Once the time is up do a quick release.

STEP FOUR: Serve. Serve rice as is or use in your favorite recipe.

Tips and Recipe Notes

• Always rinse your rice before cooking to remove any dust or debris. This also helps remove excess starch so your rice is fluffier.
• Instead of stirring with a spoon, use a fork to fluff the rice after cooking. This can help to prevent it from becoming sticky.
• Add broth instead of water to the Instant Pot if you want rice with some extra flavor.
• Don’t over stir the uncooked rice in the Instant Pot. Place everything inside, give it a quick stir, and cook. Over stirring can lead to too much starch in the water, and a stickier, less fluffy rice.

How to Store

I’m convinced that the best way to store rice is to freeze it. I do this even if I plan to use my rice the next day. It’s because this is the best way to have the freshest-tasting rice that isn’t dry. If you want to freeze your rice, here are the steps to follow:

• Place the cooked rice in Ziploc bags or airtight containers while it’s still hot (so it retains its moisture).
• Allow it to cool at room temperature.
• Place the containers in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Long-grain rice can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. But it will likely be a bit dryer when you reheat it.

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