Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary rice into a vibrant, nutrient-rich masterpiece in just 25 minutes – welcome to the world of Instant Pot Spinach Rice! This Indian-inspired recipe is not just a meal, but a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your weeknight cooking. Packed with the earthy goodness of spinach, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked basmati rice, this one-pot wonder is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- 3 cups water
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
- Wash the spinach leaves carefully and chop them finely. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain excess water completely.
- Set the Instant Pot to "Sauté" mode and heat the oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and light golden, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Sauté for another minute to release their aromatic flavors.
- Add the rinsed rice and chopped spinach to the pot. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Pour in water and add salt to taste. Gently stir to ensure rice and spinach are well distributed.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and cook on high pressure for 6-7 minutes.
- Once cooking completes, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork, mixing the spinach throughout the rice.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Key: Always rinse your basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy, separated grains.
- Spinach Matters: Use fresh spinach when possible for the most vibrant color and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to drain it completely to prevent excess moisture.
- Sauté Secret: Take time to properly sauté your onions and spices. This step builds a flavor foundation that elevates the entire dish.
- Pressure Cooking Precision: The 6-7 minute cooking time is crucial – don't overcook, or you'll end up with mushy rice.
- Natural Release Technique: Allow a 5-minute natural pressure release to help the rice finish cooking and absorb remaining moisture.
- Garnish Greatness: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of cool yogurt can take this dish from good to extraordinary.
- Meal Prep Magic: This rice keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner leftovers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
