Instant Pot Matta Rice Recipe – Kerala Red Rice Perfection

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Instant Pot Matta Rice Recipe – Kerala Red Rice Perfection

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you absolutely love a good, comforting bowl of rice. And if you haven’t tried Matta rice yet, oh boy, are you in for a treat! I first discovered this beautiful red rice on a trip to Kerala, and I’ve been trying to perfect making it at home ever since. The Instant Pot makes it SO easy – seriously, it’s a game changer. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Matta Rice recipe is all about convenience without compromising on flavour. It’s incredibly easy, takes just minutes of active cooking time, and consistently delivers perfectly cooked, fluffy Matta rice. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to experience a little piece of Kerala cuisine in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 1 cup red Matta rice (approximately 180g)
• 2 cups water (480ml)
• ½ – 1 teaspoon salt (2.5-5g) – adjust to your taste!

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because little things can make a big difference.

Matta Rice: Origin and Nutritional Benefits

Matta rice, also known as Kerala red rice, is a short-grain rice variety grown in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India. It’s known for its distinctive reddish-brown colour and earthy flavour. It’s also incredibly nutritious! It’s a good source of fibre, iron, and antioxidants – way more than your average white rice.

Water Quality & Its Impact on 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, making the rice a little tougher.

Salt: Type and Quantity Considerations

I prefer using a good quality sea salt. The amount of salt is really up to you. I usually start with ½ teaspoon and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously simple.

First, pour 1 cup of Matta rice into a bowl and give it a good rinse. Then, soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes. This helps remove excess starch and results in fluffier rice. After soaking, drain and rinse the rice again until the water runs clear.

Now, add the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and your salt to the Instant Pot. Give it a quick stir to make sure everything is combined.

Secure the lid, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.

Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. This is important! After 10 minutes, carefully manually release any remaining pressure.

Finally, check for excess water. If there is any, drain it. Give the rice a very gentle rinse to remove any remaining starch. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way to help you nail this recipe every time.

Achieving the Perfect Fluffiness

The key to fluffy Matta rice is the soaking and rinsing. Don’t skip those steps! They really do make a difference.

Troubleshooting Sticky Rice

If your rice is coming out sticky, it’s likely you’re using too much water. Try reducing the water by ¼ cup next time. Also, make sure you’re rinsing the rice thoroughly.

Understanding Pressure Release Methods

Natural pressure release is gentler and helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy. But if you’re short on time, a quick release will work too – just be careful of the steam!

Variations

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

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan!
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: Matta rice is naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go.
• Spice Level – Adding a Touch of Kerala Flavor: Add a pinch of turmeric or a small piece of cinnamon stick to the Instant Pot for a subtle flavour boost. My grandmother always added a tiny cardamom pod!
• Festival Adaptations – Onam & Vishu Special: During Onam and Vishu, Kerala’s biggest festivals, Matta rice is a must-have. Serve it with a traditional sadya (feast) for an authentic experience.

Serving Suggestions

Matta rice is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with:

• Kerala-style fish curry
• Sambar and rasam
• Vegetable thoran
• Dal and any Indian curry!

Storage Instructions

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

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Matta Rice and where does it come from?

Matta rice is a unique short-grain rice variety from Kerala, India. It’s known for its reddish-brown colour, earthy flavour, and nutritional benefits.

Can I cook Matta Rice on the stovetop instead of using an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Use a 1:2 rice-to-water ratio and cook on medium heat until the water is absorbed. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

How do I adjust the water ratio for different brands of Instant Pots?

Water ratios can vary slightly depending on your Instant Pot model. Start with the 1:2 ratio and adjust as needed based on your results.

What are some traditional Kerala dishes that pair well with Matta Rice?

So many! Fish curry, vegetable thoran, sambar, rasam, and dal are all fantastic choices.

How can I tell if the Matta Rice is fully cooked?

The rice should be tender and slightly chewy, with no hard grains. If it’s still too firm, add a little more water and cook for a few more minutes.