Chicken Free Instant Pot Brown Rice
Brown rice is one of those humble staples that can make or break a meal, and the Instant Pot method genuinely delivers the fluffy, separate grains that stovetop cooking so often fumbles. A quick rinse under cold water pulls off excess starch, which is the small but important step that keeps everything from turning gummy. The pressure cook cycle followed by a natural release does all the heavy lifting, and that final five-minute rest with the lid back on is what gives each grain that perfectly dry, tender bite. With just rice, water, salt, and a touch of olive oil, this is as clean and straightforward as a recipe gets — no broths, no add-ins, nothing to second-guess. It's a completely plant-based, protein-free base that pairs beautifully with stir-fries, grain bowls, curries, or anything else you're building your meal around. Leftovers store well in the fridge and reheat easily, making this a smart batch-cook option for busy weeknights.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 ½ cups long-grain brown rice
- 1 ¾ cups water
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Place the brown rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water, stirring with your hand, until the water runs mostly clear, about 30 seconds. Drain well.
- 2
Add the rinsed rice, water, salt, and olive oil (if using) to the Instant Pot insert. Stir briefly to combine.
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