Want to discover how to prepare brown rice in an instant pot? Then you should check what setting to cook brown rice in Instant Pot.
Using the “rice” or “manual” setting for 12 minutes at high pressure, natural release for a creamier texture, or quick release for a firmer texture, cook brown rice in the Instant Pot. Happy cooking!
Let’s explore further In this article, how to cook brown rice in an Instant Pot and provide tips to achieve perfect results every time.
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5 Tips to Cook Brown Rice in Instant Pot
Here are five tips to cook brown rice in an instant pot like a pro!
1-Preparing the Rice
Rice preparation is the first step in cooking brown rice in an Instant Pot. Start by rinsing the rice in a strainer with cold running water and a fine mesh. This will aid in the removal of any dirt or debris and prevent the rice from becoming mushy during cooking.
After rinsing the rice, add it along with the appropriate amount of water or broth to the Instant Pot. For each cup of brown rice, two cups of liquid must be added. This will ensure that the rice cooks evenly and turns out tender and fluffy.
2-Choosing the Right Setting
The next step is to select the appropriate brown rice setting on your Instant Pot. “Rice” or “manual” is the most commonly used setting for cooking brown rice.
The “rice” setting is typically programmed for 12 minutes at high pressure, whereas the “manual” setting can be customized to your liking. If you prefer your rice to be on the firmer side, cook it at high pressure for 10 to 11 minutes. If you prefer your rice to be on the softer side, cook it at high pressure for 12 to 13 minutes.
3-Natural Release vs Quick Release
After the brown rice has finished cooking, you must choose between the natural-release method and the quick-release method. The natural release technique entails allowing the pressure to release naturally, which can take between 10 and 20 minutes. This method is ideal if you prefer rice that is on the softer side and has a creamy consistency.
The quick-release method, on the other hand, involves releasing the pressure immediately upon completion of the cooking time. This method is ideal if you prefer your rice to be firmer and more distinct in texture.
4-Fluffing the Rice
After the pressure has been released, the rice should be fluffed. This can be accomplished using a fork or rice paddle. The act of fluffing rice will help to separate the grains and evenly distribute any remaining moisture.
5-Serving and Storing
The brown rice should be served and stored at this point. The rice can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Read Also: Why Can’t I Cook Brown Rice?
Why brown rice is healthier than white rice?
Because it is less processed and contains more nutrients, brown rice is considered healthier than white rice. White rice is processed to remove the bran and germ layers, which are retained in brown rice.
These layers contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals including potassium, magnesium, and zinc.
In addition, brown rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice, so it can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that may help prevent chronic diseases.
| Nutrient | Brown Rice | White Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber | 2.8 grams | 0.6 grams |
| Vitamin B3 (niacin) | 4.8 mg | 2.3 mg |
| Vitamin B1 (thiamin) | 0.2 mg | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.2 mg | 0.1 mg |
| Iron | 2.2 mg | 0.4 mg |
| Magnesium | 89 mg | 21 mg |
| Potassium | 116 mg | 55 mg |
| Zinc | 1.8 mg | 0.9 mg |
| Phosphorus | 111 mg | 85 mg |
In contrast to white rice, brown rice contains more fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In addition, brown rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice, so it can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
How to cook brown rice in an Instant Pot?
Brown rice cooked in an Instant Pot is a healthy and delicious side dish that can be prepared quickly and easily. Here are the steps:
- Rinse the rice: Start by rinsing the rice in a strainer with cold running water and a fine mesh. This will aid in the removal of any dirt or debris and prevent the rice from becoming mushy during cooking.
- Add the rice and liquid: After rinsing the rice, add it along with the appropriate amount of water or broth to the Instant Pot. For each cup of brown rice, two cups of liquid must be added.
- Choose the right setting: Select the “rice” or “manual” setting and adjust the cooking time to your liking. For instance, if you prefer your rice to be on the firmer side, you can cook it at high pressure for 10 to 11 minutes.
- Natural release vs Quick release: After the brown rice has been cooked, you can choose between the natural release method and the quick release method. The natural release technique entails allowing the pressure to release naturally, which can take between 10 and 20 minutes. If you prefer your rice on the softer side, use the natural release method; if you prefer it on the firmer side, use the quick release method.
- Fluff the rice: After the pressure has been released, the rice should be fluffed. This can be accomplished using a fork or rice paddle. The act of fluffing rice will help to separate the grains and evenly distribute any remaining moisture.
- Serve and store: The rice can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
By following these instructions, you will always be able to prepare perfect brown rice in an Instant Pot.
How to use brown rice in recipes?
Brown rice can be used to add texture, flavor, and nutrition to a variety of dishes. The following are popular ways to prepare brown rice:
- As a side dish: As a simple side dish, brown rice can be served with a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables.
- In soups and stews: In soups and stews, brown rice provides a source of carbohydrates and a hearty texture.
- In salads: Adding cooled, cooked brown rice to salads imparts a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
- In sushi: Sushi rolls can be made with brown rice, which imparts a nutty flavor and a chewy texture.
- In bowls: The base of a rice bowl can be brown rice topped with vegetables, protein, and a flavorful sauce.
- As a breakfast cereal: For a nutritious breakfast cereal, cooled brown rice can be topped with milk, fruit, and nuts after being cooled.
- As a stuffing: To make a flavorful stuffing for poultry or vegetables, brown rice can be combined with herbs, nuts, and vegetables.
- In casseroles: Brown rice can be added to casseroles and other baked dishes to add bulk and texture.
- In patties: To make nutritious rice patties, brown rice can be combined with other ingredients such as beans, vegetables, and spices.
- In desserts: The brown rice puddings can be sweetened with honey and topped with fruits.
Why brown rice takes longer to cook?
Because brown rice is less processed than white rice, it takes longer to prepare. During the milling process, the bran and germ layers of white rice are eliminated, leaving only the endosperm.
These layers are the most nutrient-dense portions of the rice and require the longest cooking time. The bran layer is exceptionally tough and fibrous, extending the cooking time. Additionally, the germ layer contains oils that can slow the cooking of rice.
Also, brown rice has a tough outer layer, known as the bran layer, which must be broken down during cooking. This bran layer gives brown rice its nutty flavor, but it also increases the cooking time compared to white rice.
Furthermore, brown rice has a lower absorption rate than white rice, so it requires more cooking liquid. Therefore, when using brown rice in an instant pot, a higher ratio of liquid to rice is required for proper cooking.
Read Also: How Many Whistles To Cook Brown Rice?
The benefits of cooking brown rice in an Instant Pot
Cooking brown rice in an Instant Pot has several benefits:
- Faster Cooking Time: One of the primary advantages of cooking brown rice in an Instant Pot is that the cooking time can be significantly reduced. In lieu of waiting 45 to 60 minutes for the rice to cook on the stovetop, it can be prepared in 20 to 30 minutes using an Instant Pot.
- Consistency: Instant Pot brown rice preparation is more consistent than stovetop preparation. The method of pressure cooking ensures that the rice cooks evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked rice every time.
- Hands-free Cooking: The Instant Pot is a hands-free method for cooking. Once the ingredients are in the Instant Pot, you can set the cooking time and temperature and let it do its job. This enables you to focus on other tasks while the rice cooks.
- Retains Nutrients: The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking method helps brown rice retain more of its nutritional value.
- Easy to clean: Instant Pot’s inner pot is non-stick, making it simple to clean.
- Versatility: In addition to brown rice, the Instant Pot can be used to prepare a variety of other foods, including soups, stews, and even desserts.
How to store cooked brown rice?
Cooked brown rice can be kept fresh and safe to eat in a variety of ways:
Refrigeration
In an airtight container, cooked brown rice can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Before placing the rice in the refrigerator, it must be completely cooled to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Freezing
Six months of cooked brown rice can be stored in the freezer. Allow the rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag. Before sealing the bag, ensure that as much air as possible has been removed.
Room temperature
Up to four hours of cooked brown rice can be stored at room temperature. However, it is not advised to store rice at room temperature because it can promote bacterial growth.
Rice should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to kill any bacteria that may have grown during storage.
Additionally, it is important to keep cooked brown rice away from moisture, light, and heat when storing it. These can accelerate the rice’s spoilage. By adhering to these storage techniques, you can ensure that your cooked brown rice remains safe and edible for several days.
Conclusion
Brown rice cooked in an Instant Pot is a healthy and tasty side dish that can be prepared quickly and easily.
Before serving, remember to properly prepare the rice, select the correct setting, decide between a natural release and a quick release, and fluff the rice. Happy cooking!