Instant Pot Coconut Brown Rice

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Coconut brown rice is a deliciously fragrant and satisfying side dish that pairs well with many Southeast Asian and tropical-inspired meals. The Instant Pot makes it especially easy—combine the ingredients and let the pressure cooker do the work. This version uses brown basmati rice for added texture and nutrition, while coconut milk adds richness and a subtle sweetness. A final touch of green onions and cilantro brings freshness and color to every bite.

I used brown basmati rice (Amazon link) in the recipe, which cooks in the 6-quart Instant Pot in about 22 minutes. White basmati cooks quickly, so if you replace the brown rice with white, reduce the cooking time to 4 minutes. The pressure release time will be the same.

How to Cook the Rice “Pot in Pot”

• Place a trivet or steamer rack inside the Instant Pot and pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the pot.
• Use a 6- to 7-inch oven-safe bowl or stainless-steel insert for the rice. Add the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt directly to the bowl and stir gently.
• Set the bowl on the trivet. If needed, create a foil sling to lower the bowl safely into the pot.
• Cover the bowl loosely with foil to prevent condensation from dripping into the rice.
• Pressure cook on high for the same cooking time (22 minutes), allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
• Carefully lift the bowl out using the sling or heatproof mitts. Fluff the rice and stir in the cilantro and green onions.
• Pot-in-pot rice may be slightly firmer than rice cooked directly in the pot; add 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra water next time if you prefer a softer texture.

Ingredient Notes

• Brown basmati rice – Rinsing removes excess starch and keeps the grains separate.
• Coconut milk – Shake well before measuring to incorporate the cream and liquid.
• Water – Combines with the coconut milk for ideal pressure-cooking moisture.
• Cilantro – Adds fresh herbal flavor; optional if you prefer another herb.
• Green onions – Provide subtle onion flavor and a bright finish.
• Kosher salt – Balances the sweetness of the coconut milk.

Steps to Make Instant Pot Coconut Brown Rice

1. Add the rinsed rice to the Instant Pot and pour in the water.
2. Shake the coconut milk well before measuring and add it to the pot with the salt.
3. Stir gently to blend the liquids with the rice.
4. Secure the lid and pressure cook on high until the rice is tender.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for a short time, then finish with a quick release.
6. Fluff the rice and stir in the cilantro and green onions.
7. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra herbs as desired.

Recipe Variations

• Garlic coconut rice. Add a minced garlic clove before cooking for savory depth.
• Ginger-scented version. Add a few slices of fresh ginger to the pot and remove before serving.
• Coconut lime rice. Stir in lime zest or a splash of lime juice with the herbs.
• Herb swap. Replace cilantro with parsley, basil, or mint for a different profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Thai-style curry, sweet and sour shrimp, or peanut chicken.
• Top with stir-fried vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian main.
• Use as a base for grilled or broiled fish with lime.
• Pair with Indonesian-style satay or beef and broccoli.
• Add to a bowl with sautéed greens and a fried egg for a fusio

You might also like this Instant Pot Parsi rice or broccoli cheese rice. This skillet Mexican rice is another excellent option.