Instant Pot Wild Rice: Perfectly Tender in Just 30 Minutes!
Sometimes, sides can steal the show, and wild rice proves that! Its nutty aroma, chewy texture, and deep, earthy flavor just stand out and even the most boring main course so much tastier.
I used to make it on the stovetop, but it took forever, and I always had to watch it to make sure it didn’t turn out mushy or burnt. Plus, I always had to soak it hours before cooking, which was kind of a hassle.
But then I found out you could make in a pressure cooker, and I never looked back. This Instant Pot Wild Rice turns out fluffy, chewy, and full of rich, earthy flavor every time.
The pressure cooker locks in moisture and keeps the grains separate, making it the perfect base for grain bowls, soups, or hearty side dishes.
The best part? No soaking required! This easy method guarantees the best results with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and effortless: Cuts down on your prepping and cooking time while locking in flavor
- Nutritious and filling: Packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants
- Full of flavor: Can be cooked with broth
- Versatile: Great for grain bowls, soups, salads, mushroom or pepper stuffing, or as a simple side
- Meal prep-friendly: Easy to store for quick and healthy meals all week long
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 38 minutes |
| Natural Release | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Rinse the wild rice under cold running water and drain well.
- Pour the rinsed wild rice, water, and salt into the Instant Pot. Stir to keep the grains from sticking to the bottom of the lid.
- Secure the lid, set the valve to “Sealing”, and cook on high pressure for 28 minutes (with 10 to 15 minutes extra for the Instant Pot to build pressure).
- Once the time is up, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Fluff the wild rice with a fork and serve warm. Enjoy it as a side dish or incorporate it into your favorite meals!
Expert Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Wild Rice
- Don’t skip rinsing. This helps clean your rice and remove any unwanted debris.
- Try a blend of grains. If you prefer a mix of textures, go for a wild rice blend. Just adjust the water-to-rice ratio and cooking time accordingly.
- Use broth for richer flavor. Chicken, vegetable, or even homemade mushroom broth works wonderfully.
- Enhance the flavor with aromatics. Want more flavorful rice? Sauté 1/2 onion and a clove of garlic before cooking the rice.
- Make adjustments to achieve optimal texture. If you want softer rice, cook the rice for 30 minutes instead of 28.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 3g |
FAQs About Instant Pot Wild Rice
Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Try bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Is wild rice gluten-free?
Yes! Wild rice is a naturally gluten-free grain.
Can I freeze wild rice?
Yes! You can freeze it in an air-tight container for up to 1 month. Reheat it with a splash of water or broth in the microwave when ready to serve.
Enjoy This Easy, Nutty, and Fluffy Instant Pot Wild Rice!
This Instant Pot Wild Rice is a simple way to bring nutty, hearty flavor to any meal with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy it as a side or incorporate it into your favorite recipes, this method delivers perfect texture and taste every time!
