Easy Basmati Rice Recipe – Instant Pot Indian Pilau with Peas

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Basmati Rice Recipe – Instant Pot Indian Pilau with Peas

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, a good, fluffy pilau is the perfect accompaniment to so many Indian meals. It’s comforting, flavorful, and honestly, way easier to make than you might think. I first made this in my Instant Pot years ago, and I haven’t looked back. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m so excited to share my easy Instant Pot Indian Pilau with Peas recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer. It delivers perfectly cooked, aromatic pilau rice in under 30 minutes – seriously! The Instant Pot makes it incredibly foolproof, and the addition of peas adds a touch of sweetness and color. It’s a fantastic side dish for curries, dals, or even just enjoyed on its own. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious pilau:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 3 tablespoons oil of choice
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 3 green cardamom pods
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 medium onion
• 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
• 1 cup water (240ml)
• Salt to taste (approx. ½ – 1 teaspoon)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Basmati Rice: Choosing the Right Grain
Basmati is key for that lovely, long-grain texture. Look for aged basmati – it tends to be fluffier. I usually get the Daawat or India Gate brands.

Oil Choice: Regional Variations & Health Benefits
Traditionally, ghee (clarified butter) is used for a rich flavor. But any oil with a high smoke point works well – vegetable oil, canola oil, or even sunflower oil. I often use groundnut oil for a lovely aroma.

Spices: The Aromatic Heart of Pilau – Cumin, Cardamom, Cloves, Cinnamon & Bay Leaf
Don’t skimp on the spices! They’re what give pilau its signature fragrance. Whole spices are best for this recipe, as they infuse the oil beautifully. If you only have ground spices, use about ¼ teaspoon of each.

Onions: Sweetness & Depth of Flavor
I prefer using red onions for a slightly sweeter flavor, but yellow onions work just fine too. Don’t rush the sautéing process – golden brown onions are essential for a good pilau.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, soak your basmati rice in cold water for 15-30 minutes. This helps the grains cook evenly and become extra fluffy. After soaking, drain and rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear.
2. Now, set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the oil and once it’s hot, toss in the cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until they become fragrant – you’ll know it when you smell that amazing aroma!
3. Next, add the cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Stir briefly to release their flavors.
4. Add the diced onion and sauté for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Patience is key here!
5. Add the drained rice, peas, water, and salt to the Instant Pot. Give everything a good mix to make sure the rice is evenly coated.
6. Secure the lid, making sure the pressure valve is set to ‘Sealing’. Cook on ‘High Pressure’ for 6 minutes.
7. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. And that’s it!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this pilau perfect every time:

Achieving Fluffy Rice Every Time
The rice-to-water ratio is crucial. I’ve found 1:1 works best in my Instant Pot, but you might need to adjust slightly depending on your model.

Understanding Natural vs. Quick Pressure Release
Natural pressure release allows the rice to steam and finish cooking, resulting in a fluffier texture. Quick release can sometimes make the rice a bit sticky.

Adjusting Spices to Your Taste
Feel free to experiment with the spices! If you like a stronger cardamom flavor, add an extra pod.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Pilau
Simply use vegetable oil instead of ghee.

Gluten-Free Pilau
This recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Spice Level Adjustment: Mild to Spicy
Add a pinch of red chili powder or a finely chopped green chili for a little heat. My friend, Priya, loves adding a tiny piece of ginger along with the onions for a warming spice.

Festival Adaptations: Perfect for Celebrations
For special occasions, add a handful of chopped nuts (cashews, almonds) and raisins during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This pilau is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with:

• Butter Chicken
• Dal Makhani
• Vegetable Curry
• Raita (yogurt dip)
• A simple salad

Storage Instructions

Leftover pilau can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is the best type of rice to use for pilau?
Basmati rice is definitely the best choice! Its long grains and delicate flavor are perfect for pilau.

Can I use a different type of oil for this recipe?
Absolutely! Any oil with a high smoke point will work. Ghee adds a traditional flavor, but vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are great alternatives.

How can I adjust the spice level of this pilau?
Add a pinch of red chili powder or a finely chopped green chili for heat.

Can I make this pilau ahead of time?
You can cook the pilau ahead of time and reheat it when needed. Just add a splash of water during reheating to keep it moist.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot – can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes! Sauté the onions and spices as directed, then add the rice, peas, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.