Instant Pot Sticky Rice

Sticky rice is one of those things that seems tricky, but the Instant Pot makes it crazy easy.

No soaking, no special equipment—just soft, chewy, perfect rice every time.

So if you’re looking to create the perfect bowl of restaurant-quality sticky rice at home, this is the easiest way to do it

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This homemade Instant Pot sticky rice recipe works for several reasons. First, its simplicity makes it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks alike. With just 3 basic ingredients and minimal preparation, anyone can whip up a batch of delicious sticky rice in no time. Additionally, the use of the Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, resulting in perfectly cooked rice, every time.

Another key advantage of this Instant Pot sticky rice recipe is its cost-effectiveness. Glutinous rice and jasmine rice are affordable pantry staples, and the other ingredients, such as water and salt, are readily available and budget-friendly. This makes it a great option for families or individuals looking to prepare a satisfying and economical meal at home.

Furthermore, the recipe's customizability allows for endless variations to suit individual preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer a savory or sweet flavor profile, you can easily adjust the seasonings and liquids to create a sticky rice dish that complements your meal perfectly. You can also experiment with different toppings or mix-ins, such as sesame seeds, chopped herbs, or diced vegetables, to add texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Rice:

The best varieties of rice for making sticky rice in the Instant Pot include glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice or sweet rice. Glutinous rice has a high starch content, which gives it its characteristic sticky texture when cooked. Jasmine rice is another popular choice for making sticky rice due to its fragrant aroma and slightly sticky texture. Both of these rice varieties can be easily found in Asian grocery stores or the international aisle of supermarkets.

Water:

While water is used in this easy Instant Pot sticky rice recipe, there are many other options that you can use to make your sticky rice. Coconut milk, chicken or vegetable broth, and even sake and iced wine can be used to make delicious and fluffy Instant Pot sticky rice. Make your choice based on what flavors you will be serving your sticky rice with.

Salt:

You can season your Asian-inspired Instant Pot sticky rice with a variety of ingredients to enhance its flavor. Some popular options include adding a drizzle of sesame oil for richness, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma. For a touch of sweetness, you can incorporate a bit of sugar or honey. Additionally, chopped scallions or cilantro can add freshness, while grated ginger or garlic can infuse a savory depth. Experiment with these seasonings to create a sticky rice dish that perfectly complements your meal.

How to Make Quick and Easy Instant Pot Sticky Rice.

Step One: 

Add rice, water, and salt to your Instant Pot.

Step Two: 

Close the lid and cook at high pressure for 7 minutes.

Step Three: 

When cooking time is complete, wait for a natural release of 10-15 minutes. This allows the rice to fully absorb the liquid and reach the desired fluffy texture.

Step Four:

Carefully remove the lid, allow the steam to clear, and gently fluff the rice with a spoon or fork.

Step Five: 

Serve alongside your favorite main dish, and enjoy!

Tips

• Before cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and ensures the rice cooks evenly. To achieve the best texture, consider soaking the rice for at least 30 minutes up to overnight before cooking. This can help soften the grains and improve their stickiness. Personally I don't soak the rice beforehand, but it's totally up to you.
• For extra flavor, consider adding ingredients like bay leaves, coconut milk, or broth to the rice before cooking.

What to Serve With Homemade Instant Pot Sticky Rice

Homemade Instant Pot sticky rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of savory and sweet dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside your favorite Asian-inspired mains such as orange chicken, ground beef stir fry, or tofu and vegetable curry.

Sticky rice also complements grilled or roasted meats like barbecue pork or glazed salmon. For a sweeter option, enjoy it with fresh mango slices and a dollop of coconut whipped cream as a Thai-inspired dessert. The versatility of homemade Instant Pot sticky rice makes it a delicious addition to any meal.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sticky rice from sticking to the Instant Pot?

To prevent your Instant Pot sticky rice from sticking to the pot, rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Additionally, using a non-stick Instant Pot liner or spraying the pot with cooking spray can help.

How do I know when the sticky rice is done cooking?

When done, your Instant Pot sticky rice should be tender and fully cooked when done. You can test for doneness by tasting a few grains or checking for a light, fluffy texture.

For how long can leftover Instant Pot sticky rice be kept fresh?

Leftover Instant Pot sticky rice can be kept fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Additionally, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months if longer-term storage is required.

More Rice Recipes

Instant Pot Wild Rice

Instant Pot Brown Rice

Instant Pot Sushi Rice

Broccoli Rice Casserole