Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Instant Pot Brown Basmati Rice Recipe – Cardamom Infused Perfection

Introduction

Okay, let’s be real – perfectly cooked brown rice can feel like a bit of a challenge, right? I used to avoid it altogether, honestly! But then I discovered the magic of the Instant Pot, and everything changed. This Instant Pot Brown Basmati Rice recipe is a total game-changer. It’s fluffy, fragrant, and unbelievably easy. Plus, the subtle hint of cardamom just elevates everything. Seriously, you’ll want to make this all the time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any brown rice recipe. It’s quick, thanks to the Instant Pot, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s foolproof – even if you’ve struggled with brown rice before, this method works. And the cardamom? It adds a beautiful aroma and a delicate flavor that makes this rice a perfect accompaniment to so many Indian dishes. It’s a simple way to make a weeknight meal feel a little more special.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this cardamom-infused delight:

• 1 cup brown basmati rice
• 1 cup water (240ml)
• 1 Tbsp ghee (about 15ml) – or oil of your choice
• 2 green cardamom pods
• 0.5 tsp salt (about 2.5g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Brown Basmati Rice: Health Benefits & Selection

Brown basmati rice is a fantastic choice. It’s a whole grain, meaning it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Look for a good quality brand – the aroma should be pleasant and nutty. I usually get mine from an Indian grocery store for the best flavor.

Ghee: Traditional Flavor & Alternatives

Ghee adds a lovely richness and traditional Indian flavor. But if you don’t have ghee, don’t worry! You can easily substitute with vegetable oil, coconut oil, or even butter. Just keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different.

Cardamom Pods: Green vs. Black & Aroma

We’re using green cardamom pods here, which have a bright, floral aroma. Black cardamom has a smokier flavor and is wonderful in some dishes, but green is perfect for this recipe. Don’t skip crushing the pods slightly to release their fragrance!

Water Quality & Rice Texture

Believe it or not, the quality of your water matters! Filtered water will give you the best results. Hard water can sometimes affect the texture of the rice.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s easier than you think.

1. First, give the brown basmati rice a really good rinse under cold water. Swirl it around with your hands until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent stickiness. Drain it well.
2. Now, add the rinsed rice, water, ghee (or oil), cardamom pods, and salt to your Instant Pot. Make sure the rice is fully submerged in the water.
3. Seal the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Finally, fluff the rice gently with a fork. And that’s it! Serve warm and enjoy.

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to take your rice to the next level:

Achieving Perfect Fluffiness

Fluffing with a fork is key. It separates the grains and prevents them from clumping together. Don’t skip this step!

Adjusting Water Levels for Different Rice Brands

Rice brands can vary slightly. If your rice is consistently too wet or too dry, adjust the water level by 1-2 tablespoons next time.

The Importance of Rinsing

Seriously, don’t skip rinsing! It makes a huge difference in the final texture.

Natural Pressure Release vs. Quick Release

Natural pressure release is ideal for brown rice. It allows the rice to finish cooking gently and become perfectly fluffy.

Variations

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

Vegan Adaptation

Simply substitute the ghee with your favorite plant-based oil, like coconut oil or avocado oil.

Ghee-Free Option (Oil Substitutions)

As mentioned before, any neutral-flavored oil works well in place of ghee. Sunflower oil or canola oil are good options.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Chilies)

If you like a little heat, add a small dried red chili (broken into pieces) along with the cardamom pods. My friend, Priya, loves adding a pinch of chili powder too!

Festival Adaptations (Adding Saffron & Dried Fruits)

For a festive touch, add a pinch of saffron strands (soaked in a tablespoon of warm milk) and a handful of chopped dried fruits like raisins and cashews. This is lovely for special occasions.

Serving Suggestions

This cardamom-infused brown basmati rice is incredibly versatile. It’s amazing with:

• Dal Makhani
• Butter Chicken
• Vegetable Curry
• Raita
• Or simply enjoyed on its own!

Storage Instructions

Leftover rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave with a splash of water to restore some moisture.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is the water ratio for brown basmati rice in an Instant Pot?

The ideal ratio is 1:1 – 1 cup of rice to 1 cup of water.

Can I use a different type of rice in this recipe?

While this recipe is specifically for brown basmati rice, you can experiment with other types. However, you’ll likely need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? Can I cook this on the stovetop?

Yes! You can cook brown basmati rice on the stovetop. Use a 2:1 water-to-rice ratio and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.

How can I enhance the cardamom flavor?

Lightly crushing the cardamom pods before adding them to the Instant Pot helps release more flavor. You can also add a tiny pinch of cardamom powder along with the pods.

Can I add vegetables or other spices to the rice while it cooks?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots, or spices like turmeric or cumin, along with the rice and water. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.