Instant Pot Fried Rice

Nothing beats the comfort of a tasty bowl of Instant Pot Fried Rice. It’s simple, cozy, and brings back those warm memories of your favorite takeout. With just one pot, you can whip up a meal that people love, packed with flavor and texture. Plus, cooking in the Instant Pot makes everything easier! You hardly need to worry about monitoring the rice or stirring it constantly. Instead, you can just let the magic happen while you gather everyone around the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this dish can be customized to fit whatever you’re feeling that day. So, whether you’re enjoying it solo, serving it as a side, or making it a main course, this fried rice is sure to hit the spot!

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Why This Recipe Works

Instant Pot Fried Rice became a crowd-pleaser because of its fluffy texture and rich flavors. It mimics that beloved takeout version you likely love. The pressure cooking method locks in flavors while keeping the rice perfectly cooked. As a result, you end up with a deliciously satisfying dish that you can quickly prepare at home. No need for fancy cooking skills; this recipe is all about fun and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Fried Rice

You’ll adore this Instant Pot Fried Rice for many reasons! It’s quick to prepare, which makes it ideal for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time. Not only is the dish full of flavor, but it’s also incredibly customizable. Whether you’re craving vegetarian comfort food or looking for a versatile side dish, this recipe delivers on taste without hassle. You can adjust ingredients based on what you have available in your kitchen, making it perfect for those last-minute meals.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 3 tbsp butter, divided
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup white onion, diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)

How to Make Instant Pot Fried Rice

Cooking the Rice

To get things rolling, start by adding the rinsed rice and water into your Instant Pot. Close the lid and check that the valve is set to sealing. Pressure cook for just 4 minutes—so easy, right? Once that’s done, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes beforehand. Afterward, manually release any remaining pressure. This step is crucial! Next, transfer the rice to a large bowl and pop it in the fridge to chill, ideally overnight. Chilling helps firm up the grains, so you get that perfect fried rice texture.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Now that your rice is chilling, press the “sauté” button on your Instant Pot and set the time for 10 minutes. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in there and throw in the diced carrots, onion, frozen peas, and minced garlic. Sauté those for about 5 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender and vibrant in color. It’s the perfect moment to enjoy those lovely aromas wafting through your kitchen!

Combining Flavors

Once the veggies are ready, stir in the sliced green onions and toasted sesame oil, cooking for just another minute. You’re blending those beautiful flavors together! Next, push the veggies over to one side of the Instant Pot. On the other side, add the last tablespoon of butter and whisked eggs. Scramble the eggs for about 30 seconds until they’re fully cooked. This adds a wonderful richness to your dish!

Final Assembly

Now it’s time for the fun part! Mix the sautéed vegetables and eggs together, then add the chilled rice along with the soy sauce. Let it sit for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. After that, give it a good stir to coat all the rice evenly with that lovely soy sauce. You’ll see it transform into a colorful, fragrant dish.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this delightful Instant Pot Fried Rice, sprinkle some additional green onions over the top for garnish. This little touch makes a big difference! You might consider pairing it with a refreshing cucumber salad or crispy spring rolls to elevate your meal. The combination works really well and adds variety to your plate.

Tips for Success

For the best results, allow your rice to chill overnight before frying. This helps firm up those grains, reducing the risk of mushiness when you cook. Feel free to get creative! You can incorporate your favorite proteins such as chicken or shrimp, transforming it into a heartier meal that will satisfy any appetite.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Try adding diced bell peppers, baby corn, or broccoli for different flavors and textures. You can also swap out the soy sauce for coconut aminos for a lighter option. There’s plenty of room to make it your own!

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? No problem! Store your fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 days. For reheating, just toss it in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture. You won’t lose that delicious taste!

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Instant Pot Fried Rice with sweet and sour chicken, teriyaki tofu, or a vegetable stir-fry for a wholesome Asian-inspired dinner. You’ll love having such a versatile dish that can complement various meals.

FAQs

What type of rice should I use for fried rice?
Long grain white rice works best, as it stays fluffy and separate.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepping the rice a day in advance really improves texture.

How can I make this fried rice vegetarian?
Great news! This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that your soy sauce is free from fish products.

Can I freeze leftover fried rice?
Yes, you can freeze fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What are some good add-ins for fried rice?
Consider adding diced bell peppers, corn, or cooked protein like chicken or shrimp to enhance your dish.

This Instant Pot Fried Rice is more than a recipe; it’s a doorway to kitchen fun and flavor. With creation so easy and taste so delicious, it’ll likely become a staple in your home. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a gathering with family, enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade dish that competes with your favorite takeout!

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