There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of perfectly cooked Calrose rice—soft, slightly sticky, and incredibly comforting. Whether you’re serving it alongside teriyaki chicken, using it as the base for a poke bowl, or pairing it with a refreshing Cucumber Avocado Salad, this versatile grain has a way of elevating any meal.
And thanks to the Instant Pot, you can achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Calrose rice, originally cultivated in California, has become a staple in many kitchens because of its delicate, slightly chewy texture and ability to absorb flavors beautifully.
It’s the foundation of countless Asian and Hawaiian dishes, and now, it’s easier than ever to make at home. No more guesswork, no more watching the pot—just perfect rice, every single time.
This Instant Pot method is a game-changer. It locks in moisture, ensuring each grain is cooked evenly. Plus, it’s quick—ready in under 15 minutes, with no need to babysit the stove. Want a cozy, hearty meal? Serve it with Potato Leek Soup for a satisfying balance of textures.
There’s a reason this recipe is trending: More people are switching to convenient, fail-proof cooking methods, and the Instant Pot is leading the way. A 2023 survey found that over 60% of home cooks prefer using pressure cookers for their reliability and efficiency.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get perfect rice every time, this recipe is your new best friend. So, let’s make some Calrose rice—because a great meal starts with a great foundation.
What Makes This Recipe a Must-Try?
- Zero guesswork, just perfect rice: Before I started using the Instant Pot, I struggled with getting the right texture. Now, it’s effortless—no stirring, no checking, just fluffy, sticky perfection.
- Saves time and effort: Cooking rice on the stovetop always felt like a chore. With the Instant Pot, I can set it and forget it, making dinner prep so much easier.
- Versatile and pairs with everything: Whether it’s sushi, stir-fries, or even just a bowl with a drizzle of soy sauce, this rice adapts to any meal.
- Consistently delicious results: The pressure cooking method ensures even hydration, so no more crunchy or mushy grains—just perfect rice every time.
- Great for meal prep: I love making a batch and keeping it in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week. It reheats beautifully without drying out!
Instant Pot Calrose Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
- Measuring Cup
- Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
- Spatula or rice paddle
Ingredients
- 1 cup calrose rice
- 1 cup 2 tablespoons water for cooking (or 1.5 cups for stovetop)
Instructions
- Rinse the Calrose rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
- Add the rinsed rice and 1 cup + 2 tablespoons of water to the Instant Pot.
- Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and select the Pressure Cook (or Manual) setting for 5 minutes on High Pressure.
- Once cooking is done, allow a 10-minute natural release, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a spatula or rice paddle.
- Serve warm as a side dish or use it as a base for bowls, stir-fries, or sushi.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat with a splash of water to restore moisture before serving.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 84kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 0.2g |
| Sugar | 0.04g |
| Sodium | 6mg |
Insider Tips For The Best Calrose Rice Every Time!
Use a 1:1.1 Water Ratio for Softer Grains
Most recipes suggest a strict 1:1 ratio, but adding just 2 extra tablespoons of water per cup makes a noticeable difference in texture—especially if you prefer slightly softer, fluffier grains.
Rinse, But Don’t Overdo It
Yes, rinsing removes excess starch, but scrubbing the rice too hard can break the grains, leading to an uneven texture. A quick 30-second rinse until the water is mostly clear is all you need.
Skip the “Keep Warm” Function
The residual heat can overcook the rice, making it stickier than intended. Once the pressure has released, turn off the Instant Pot and fluff immediately for the best results.
Let It Sit for 5 Minutes After Fluffing
Freshly fluffed rice might seem a bit too moist, but letting it sit uncovered for a few minutes allows excess steam to escape, giving you that perfect, slightly chewy texture.
Use a Wooden or Silicone Spatula
Avoid using metal utensils when fluffing, as they can crush the delicate rice grains. A wooden spoon or silicone spatula keeps the texture light and airy.
For Sushi or Sticky Rice Dishes, Add Vinegar While Fluffing
If you’re using this rice for sushi, poke bowls, or onigiri, mix in a little seasoned rice vinegar while fluffing—it enhances the texture and gives a subtle tang.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
