How to Make Black Rice

Name: How to Make Black Rice
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 cup black rice; 1 1/2 cups of water (or low-sodium vegetable broth)

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Cooking black rice in the Instant Pot is a breeze. It yields perfectly tender grains with a nutty flavor and satisfying chewiness, making it great in both savory and sweet dishes. Black rice adds a unique color and texture. It is also naturally gluten-free.

A bowl of cooked black rice with two wooden chopsticks.

Black rice is also known as forbidden rice. This ancient grain was reserved only for Chinese royalty and the wealthy. Thankfully, it's now accessible and appreciated worldwide because black rice not only tastes great but is also high in nutrients not found in white and brown rice. Specifically, black rice is higher in antioxidants, plant compounds (anthocyanins), and iron than other rice varieties.

Dry black rice in a bowl with wooden spoon to show rice texture.

How to cook black rice in the Instant Pot

While the stovetop is an acceptable method for cooking this rice, we love cooking it in the Instant Pot. You can set it and forget it! Below are the steps for cooking black rice in the Instant Pot.

Rinse the Black Rice

Measure 1 cup of black rice and rinse it thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the excess water using a fine mesh strainer. This rinsing and draining helps remove debris, pollutants, and excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

Add Rice and Water to the Instant Pot

Transfer the rinsed black rice to the Instant Pot.

Add 1 ½ cups of water or low-sodium vegetable broth.

Black rice and water in the instant pot before its been cooked.

Cook Settings

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.

Cook on high pressure using the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting for 17 minutes for a firm, flakier texture and 20 to 22 minutes for a softer, more mushy texture.

Cooked black rice in a bowl with chopsticks. — 17 minutes with 10 minutes of natural release

Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 10 minutes. This means leaving it undisturbed after cooking instead of manually releasing the pressure immediately.

Quick Release and Fluffing

After 10 minutes of natural pressure release, carefully switch the valve to "Venting" for a quick release of any remaining pressure. Alternatively, let the rice naturally release completely until you're ready to eat it, or add it to another recipe (we've let it sit for an hour or more).

Once the pressure drops and the float valve (metal pin) goes down, carefully open the lid. Condensation will form on the top of the lid. Be careful not to let too much water drip down into the rice.

Use a fork to fluff the black rice gently.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Instant Pot Black Rice

Water Ratio: The ratio of 1 cup of black rice to 1.5 cups of water ensures that the rice cooks to the right texture. Adjust the water amount slightly based on your preference for softer or firmer rice. For example, use slightly less water if you like firmer rice or slightly more water for soft, mushy rice.
Rinsing: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove surface starch and prevent clumping, resulting in fluffy, separate grains.
Natural Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 10 minutes helps ensure that the rice finishes cooking evenly and absorbs any remaining liquid.
Flavor Options: For savory recipes, you can enhance the flavor of this rice by using low-sodium vegetable broth. You can also add a cinnamon stick or cardamon to infuse even more flavor.
Storage: Cooked black rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It reheats well and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.

Cooking black rice on the stovetop

If you don't have an Instant Pot, follow these steps to cook black rice on the stovetop.

In a medium pot, bring the water or low-sodium vegetable broth to a boil.
Add the rinsed rice to the boiling water.
Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 30-35 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is black rice?

Black rice is a type of heirloom rice known for its deep purple-black color, which turns dark purple when cooked. It has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and a chewy texture, making it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Beyond its culinary appeal, black rice has high antioxidant content, fiber, and beneficial nutrients like iron and vitamin E.

Does rice need to be soaked before cooking?

Soaking rice before cooking is not necessary, but rinsing it thoroughly helps remove excess starch.

Can you cook black rice in the rice cooker?

Absolutely! You can use the same ratio of water-to-rice as for the Instant Pot method.

Is black rice healthier than white rice?

Yes, black rice is considered healthier because it contains more fiber, protein, antioxidants, and micronutrients compared to white rice. Check out this article about the health benefits of this rice.

Whether you're drawn to black rice for its health benefits, cultural significance, or culinary versatility, incorporating this ancient grain can elevate your meals. From savory to sweet, this rice offers a range of possibilities that are as nourishing as they are delicious.

Check out some of our recipes with this rice: Ancient Grains mixture, Sushi Salad, Asian Salad in a Jar, and Black Rice Pudding.