How to Cook Arborio Rice

How to cook Arborio rice as Instant Pot rice, on the stove or in a slow cooker is here. Fluffy white rice cooked 3 different ways is here. Serve as fat free side dish that is naturally gluten free with any meal.

Instant Pot Arborio Rice

We are going to focus on the pressure cooker because with all types of rice this is by far the best method. We have now shared jasmine rice Instant Pot style, regular long grain, and now this one as far as white goes. That is typically the most popular, fastest, and less expensive. You will want to follow the directions in the recipe card below for this method.

It is possible to make brown rice pressure cooker style too in the same pot, at a different time. Like I said this does take quite a bit longer but it is a lot better for you. With the husk still in tact it has more fiber but does have a stronger flavor and is more dry too.

Pressure Cooker Arborio Rice

Whether you are using an IP, Foodi or making this as an easy Crockpot Express recipe you are going to use the same ratio and timing. Typically you’re goin to use about 2:1 and there will be a slight variation of 1/4 of a cup as far as that goes with every variety.

• 1 c arborio rice
• 1 3/4 c water or broth

Ninja Foodi Arborio Rice

We eat a lot of this grain in particular. I grew up in Hawaii and it was a staple, like daily. With that said I will say I am VERY particular when it comes to how it turns out. With a rice cooker it comes out drier, unless you buy a pricey version. An IP turns out a lot better all in all if you ask me.

• You can spray inside with olive oil for an easier cleanup first
• Add rice and water (or broth) together instant pot. Stir together.
• High pressure cook for 5 minutes cooking time and let naturally release the steam for 5 minutes.
• Then quick release the rest.
• Fluff cooked rice, add butter, salt and pepper, parmesan cheese if you like and serve.

Now let’s talk about the big debate; to rinse or not to rinse. If you’re going to go all traditional you would definitely do it. I will tell you that I don’t, and for a reason. So rinsing is going to remove that white powdery substance on the outside of each piece of grain. Removing that will make your pieces separate more when done.

Personally we like sticky rice so if you skip this you will get more like the restaurants give you. I mean typically theirs is sushi rice which is more expensive but you will get a lot closer to that consistency without the added water at the beginning.

What is the water ratio for Arborio rice?

The ratio is 1:1.5 to become fluffy and the right consistency. So you’re going to combine 1.5 cups in water or broth with 1 cup rice in your pot. Bring to a boil, stir once, then cover with lid and simmer for 20 minutes until tender.

Arborio Rice on the Stove

The ratio of water to rice will be 2:1 for this. That means 2 cups of water per each cup of rice. Add these in a saucepan over the stove. Bring water to a boil and stir in your grains. Cover with a lid, reduce heat, and simmer on low for 20 minutes or so, or until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a spoon and serve.

Slow Cooker Arborio Rice

Ok so this rice variety does have a high starch content which means that no matter which way it will be stickier than long grain let’s say. If you have never made Crockpot white rice before it works surprisingly well. At the end when all the water has absorbed you can sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded parmesan on top and let it melt on which is great.

To make it more of an Italian variety use some seasonings and chopped parsley on the top. Serve with grilled chicken and a glass of white wine and OH MY. Give it a whirl and let us know what you think of this one.

And then let’s move on to dessert options. With our slow cooker rice pudding I think it is best to use Minute rice, not this type. I have one that works great with a few varieties though and takes less than 30 minutes to make. Like from scratch and better than at a restaurant. It’s our Instant Pot rice pudding. To die for!!

What is the best way to store leftover rice?

I will say that it will never be the same as it is fresh, like never. The only real way to somewhat salvage it is to cool, move into a freezer bag and suck all the air out. Put it into the fridge overnight and reheat within 24 hours, no longer. You’ll want to transfer into a microwave safe dish, drizzle with 2 tbsp broth and heat for 1 minute stirring halfway thru.