Fluffy long-grain rice with the buttery and nutty aroma of black cumin seeds sizzled in ghee, along with the mellow spice of whole cloves and green cardamom pods.
Prep Time5 minutesminutes
Cook Time15 minutesminutes
Total Time20 minutesminutes
Course: dinner, Lunch, Meal Preparation, Side Dish
Measure the rice into a wire-mesh strainer, then rinse under running water for 10 seconds, swishing it around. Repeat once more, then drain and set aside.
Select the high Sauté setting on the Instant Pot and heat the ghee. Add the cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom, and bay leaf and sauté until aromatic, about 30 seconds. Add the rice and sauté until it is toasted for about 1 minute. Add the salt, pour in the water, and stir to combine. Scrape down the sides of the pot to make sure all the rice is submerged in the water.
Secure the lid and set the Pressure Release to Sealing. Press the Cancel button to reset the cooking program, then select the Pressure Cook or Manual setting and set the cooking time for 5 minutes at low pressure.
Perform a quick release by moving the Pressure Release to Venting. Open the pot and, wearing heat-resistant mitts, lift out the inner pot; this will help prevent the rice from overcooking. Gently fluff with a fork or silicone spatula.
Use a rice paddle to scoop the rice out of the pot and transfer to a platter, then serve.
Notes
If you have time, soak the rice for 20 minutes. Then use a 1:1 rice to water ratio for best results.
I usually skip soaking for this recipe. For up to 1.5 cups of rice, I use a 1:2 rice to water ratio and cook on low pressure for 5 minutes with a quick release.
For 2 cups or more, a 1:1 rice to water ratio works well.
After cooking, move the inner pot to a trivet on the counter to stop the rice from overcooking and turning mushy.
Let the rice cool slightly, then gently fluff with a fork or silicone spatula.
Water quantity may vary depending on the brand and age of your rice, and how soft or dry you prefer it. For firmer rice, reduce the water slightly.
Vegan Tip
Use a neutral oil or coconut oil in place of ghee.
Reminder
Be sure to remove and discard the whole spices before serving.