Instant Pot Black Rice

Instant Pot black rice is a quick and easy way to enjoy this uniquely flavorful grain without any extra fuss. With its deep, earthy taste and striking color, black rice makes a bold addition to any meal.

This recipe works beautifully for Forbidden, Thai, Japonica, and even the stickier glutinous black rice, all with no need for rinsing. Just let the Instant Pot handle the cooking for perfectly tender results every time.

If you like this recipe, you will like our Instant Pot Wild Blend Rice: Save some time and free up stovetop space by preparing our favorite Wild rice. It goes with everything from salads to soups to casseroles.

Here is Why This Black Rice Recipe Works

Like many of our Instant Pot rice recipes, it’s an easy one. 😉 All you need are the following ingredients:

• Black rice. This recipe is a great one for all varieties of black rice so don’t worry too much about what type you have.
• Water. Just like any rice recipe, water is somewhat essential for this one. 😉 Feel free to swap in an equal amount of broth if you’d like to add a bit more flavor.
• Salt. Don’t skip this simple seasoning as it adds just the right amount of flavor.

How to Cook Black Rice in the Instant Pot

For this Instant Pot rice, follow this simple process (and see all the details in the recipe at the bottom of the page):

1. Combine the ingredients: Add the rice, water (or broth) and salt to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and make sure the valve is in the sealed position.
2. Cook in the Instant Pot: Cook the black rice on high pressure for 18 minutes (if using glutenous black rice, increase to 21 minutes).
3. Release the pressure: After the cook time, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then release the rest of the pressure manually.

Fluff up the rice and serve however you like!

This recipe works well with all types of black rice. We tested Forbidden black rice, Thai black rice, Japonica black rice, and glutenous black rice. The only difference was that glutenous black rice needs a few more minutes of cook time.

If you want to make quick fried rice with this recipe, use our sauce for fried rice and stir in some scrambled eggs, leftover pork chops (or any meat), and some frozen veggies.

Variations 

Garlic Herb Black Rice: Add a minced clove of garlic and a teaspoon of mixed dried herbs (like thyme and rosemary).

Citrus Almond Black Rice: After cooking, fold in a teaspoon of orange zest and a handful of toasted almond slivers.

Miso Mushroom Black Rice: Mix in a tablespoon of miso paste and ½ cup of finely chopped mushrooms before cooking for an umami-packed variation.

Tips for Success

• Not all black rice is the same! Glutinous black rice needs a bit more time (21 minutes) to reach Swap out water for broth if you want a richer, more savory rice base that pairs well with main dishes.
  
• Let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. This keeps the rice from overcooking.
  
• Black rice is naturally flavorful, so a pinch of salt afterward can be all it needs. If adding other seasonings, taste and adjust once it’s done.

Storage

Black Rice in the Instant Pot

With this Instant Pot black rice recipe, you’re just minutes away from a perfectly cooked, flavorful side that’s as versatile as it is striking on the plate. Add a punch of color to the dinner table and try out some new flavors.

Some Other Recipes You Will Love:

• Black Rice Salad with Tomatoes
• Sweet Potato Kale Salad
• Instant Pot Pork Fried Rice
• Instant pot red rice