How to Cook Any Grain in the Instant Pot

This handy guide will make cooking whole grains in the Instant Pot a cinch.

Photo: Roberto Machado Noa / GettyImages

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Cooking whole grains in the Instant Pot takes a bit of practice, but we’ve got you covered. Here’s a chart to have handy so you can have whole grain perfection at your fingertips. 

For each cup on grain in the first column, use the appropriate amount of liquid noted in column two, along with the indicated time and appropriate release method (natural or quick). We’ve also indicated the approximate yield of cooked grain. Make sure to rinse the grains well in cool water and drain before starting. 

Your Instant Pot Guide to Cooking Whole Grains

1 Cup Grain Cups Liquid Pressure/Cooking Time Release Yield in Cups
Bulgur 2 Low/12 minutes QR 3
Brown basmati rice High/22 minutes NR 10 min 3
Buckwheat 1¾  High/5 minutes NR 10 min  3¼ 
Farro High/20 minutes NR 10 min  3
Freekeh (cracked) 1⅔ High/5 minutes QR 3
Long grain brown rice High/22 minutes NR 10 min  2½ to 3
Short grain brown rice 1¾  High/22 minutes NR 10 min  3
Steel Cut Oats High/4 minutes  NR 20 min 3½ 
Quinoa High/1 minute NR 10 min 2½ 

 

QR= Quick Release

NR=Natural Release

For more tips and tricks, check out 7 Instant Pot Tips the Manual Doesn’t Tell You. Or if you’re looking for accessories for your IP, read The Accessories You Really Need for Your Instant Pot.

From Clean Eating.