Choosing the right rice for your Instant Pot can make a big difference in taste and texture. Different rice types cook differently, so knowing the best options helps you get perfect results every time.
Rice cooks quickly and evenly in an Instant Pot, but some varieties suit it better. Long grain, short grain, jasmine, basmati, and brown rice all offer unique flavors and textures. Some models, like the Instant Pot Duo or Zest, have presets designed for specific rice types.
This guide covers top rice choices for popular Instant Pot models, including the 20-Cup Rice Cooker and 7-in-1 Duo series. Whether you want fluffy white rice or hearty brown rice, selecting the right kind ensures your meals come out just right, making your cooking easier and tastier.
Instant Pot 20-cup Rice Cooker

The Instant Pot 20-Cup Rice Cooker is perfect for individuals or families who frequently cook rice and grains and want to enjoy healthier meals without sacrificing flavor or texture. This multi-cooker is ideal for health-conscious users looking to reduce carbohydrates in their diet while still enjoying perfectly cooked rice. It’s also great for busy home cooks seeking convenience and versatility in one appliance.
Pros:
- Features Carb Reducing Technology to make rice healthier without compromising taste.
- Large 20-cup capacity, suitable for families or meal prepping.
- Comes with 8 cooking presets for versatile use beyond rice, including various grains.
- Compact design with a lightweight build of 8.4 pounds for easy handling and storage.
- Produced by the trusted brand Instant Pot, known for reliable kitchen appliances.
Cons:
- May be bulky for kitchens with limited counter space due to its size.
- Some users might find the carb-reducing process requires adjustment in cooking habits.
- Price point could be higher compared to basic rice cookers without advanced features.
The Instant Pot 20-Cup Rice Cooker combines smart technology with user-friendly design to deliver a healthier cooking experience. Its unique Carb Reducing Technology effectively lowers the carbohydrate content in rice and grains, appealing to those mindful of their diet. Additionally, the inclusion of 8 cooking presets offers versatility, allowing users to prepare a variety of meals with ease, which saves time and effort in the kitchen.
With a substantial 20-cup capacity, this multi-cooker is well-suited for larger households or anyone who enjoys batch cooking. Despite its size, it remains manageable at just 8.4 pounds, making it easy to move or store when not in use. Overall, this rice cooker offers a perfect balance of health benefits, convenience, and trusted quality from Instant Pot, making it a smart choice for modern kitchens.
To buy this product, click here.
Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup One Touch Rice Cooker

The Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup One Touch Rice Cooker is ideal for individuals or small families who want a convenient and efficient way to prepare perfect rice, grains, quinoa, and oatmeal. If you value simplicity in cooking and prefer a multi-functional kitchen appliance that requires minimal supervision, this product is tailored for you. It’s especially suitable for busy professionals, students, or anyone looking to save time without compromising on meal quality.
Pros:
- One Touch Functionality for easy and hassle-free cooking.
- Versatile cooking options including rice, grains, quinoa, and oatmeal.
- Compact size with dimensions of 9.25 x 8.46 x 8.74 inches, ideal for small kitchens.
- Lightweight design at just over 4.4 pounds, making it easy to move and store.
- No pressure cooking functionality, perfect for those who prefer straightforward cooking methods.
Cons:
- Limited to 8-cup cooked/4-cup uncooked capacity, which may not suit larger families.
- Does not include pressure cooking options found in other Instant Pot models.
- Basic color options with only the 8 Cup Zest variant available.
The Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup One Touch Rice Cooker provides a seamless cooking experience with its intuitive one-touch control panel. This feature allows users to effortlessly prepare a variety of grains without the guesswork, ensuring perfectly cooked meals every time. The cooker’s versatility extends beyond just rice, supporting grains like quinoa and oatmeal, which adds nutritional value to your diet. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a practical addition to any kitchen, especially where space is limited.
Additionally, the absence of pressure cooking functionality simplifies operation, catering to those who prefer traditional cooking methods without the complexity or safety concerns associated with pressure cooking. The Instant Pot brand ensures reliability and quality, making the Zest 8 Cup Rice Cooker a dependable appliance for everyday use. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this rice cooker enhances meal prep efficiency and consistency.
To buy this product, click here.
Instant Pot Duo Mini Electric Pressure Cooker

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker is ideal for individuals or small families looking for a versatile and space-saving kitchen appliance. If you want to prepare meals quickly without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, or if you enjoy experimenting with a variety of cooking methods like pressure cooking, slow cooking, and yogurt making, this compact 3-quart cooker is perfect for you. It’s especially suited for those with limited kitchen space who still want to enjoy home-cooked meals with ease.
Pros:
- Multi-functional 7-in-1 appliance combining pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, warmer, and sterilizer
- Compact 3-quart size ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or couples
- Durable stainless steel inner pot for even cooking and easy cleaning
- Includes free app with over 1900 recipes for cooking inspiration and guidance
- User-friendly controls and preset cooking programs simplify meal preparation
Cons:
- Smaller capacity may not be suitable for larger families or batch cooking
- Learning curve for users unfamiliar with pressure cooking technology
- Relatively heavier compared to other mini cookers at 8.22 pounds
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini offers a wide range of features that make it a standout kitchen appliance. Its ability to function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, warmer, and sterilizer provides exceptional versatility, allowing users to prepare a variety of dishes with just one device. The stainless steel cooking pot ensures durability and even heat distribution, which results in perfectly cooked meals every time. Additionally, the compact size with dimensions of approximately 10 x 11.2 x 11.4 inches makes it an excellent fit for kitchens with limited counter space.
Another significant benefit is the inclusion of a free app with access to over 1900 recipes. This feature is particularly helpful for beginners and busy users who want to explore new meals without spending time searching for recipes. The preset programs and easy-to-use controls simplify the cooking process, making it accessible for users of all skill levels. Overall, the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini combines convenience, efficiency, and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
To buy this product, click here.
Instant Pot Duo

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is ideal for busy individuals and families who want to prepare healthy, home-cooked meals quickly and with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook looking for convenience, this versatile appliance is perfect for those who value time-saving and multifunctionality in their cooking routine.
Pros:
- Combines 7 kitchen appliances in one: pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, warmer, and sterilizer.
- Includes an app with over 800 recipes, making meal planning easy and diverse.
- Durable stainless steel cooking pot that ensures even heating and easy cleaning.
- Compact design with dimensions of 12.2 x 12.6 x 13.0 inches, suitable for most kitchen counters.
- Large 6-quart capacity to cook meals for families or gatherings.
Cons:
- Learning curve for users unfamiliar with electric pressure cookers.
- Some users might find the control panel complex initially.
- Heavier than traditional cookers at 11.8 pounds, which may affect portability.
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 offers a wide range of cooking functions that allow users to prepare a variety of dishes effortlessly. Its pressure cooking feature significantly reduces cooking time for meals like stews, roasts, and beans, while the slow cooker function lets you prepare meals throughout the day without constant supervision. The built-in yogurt maker and sterilizer add unique benefits, promoting healthier eating habits and kitchen hygiene.
With its user-friendly interface and included app containing over 800 recipes, this appliance supports both novice and experienced cooks in exploring new cuisines and meal ideas. The stainless steel pot ensures durability and even heat distribution, enhancing the quality of your dishes. Overall, the Instant Pot Duo is a versatile, space-saving kitchen tool that brings convenience and efficiency, making it a valuable addition to any home.
To buy this product, click here.
Hamilton Beach Rice Cooker & Food Steamer

The Hamilton Beach Digital Programmable Rice Cooker & Food Steamer is ideal for busy individuals or families who want a convenient, efficient way to prepare perfectly cooked rice and steamed meals. If you value versatility and time-saving kitchen appliances, this product is designed for you.
Pros:
- Digital programmable features allow for easy cooking customization.
- Includes a steam and rinse basket for added meal versatility.
- Compact stainless steel design fits well in any kitchen.
- Can cook up to 8 cups cooked (4 cups uncooked) rice, suitable for families.
- Lightweight at only 4.0 pounds, making it easy to handle and store.
Cons:
- Limited to 4 cups uncooked rice, which may be insufficient for larger gatherings.
- Dimensions might be slightly bulky for very small kitchens.
- No advanced smart connectivity features.
The Hamilton Beach Digital Programmable Rice Cooker & Food Steamer boasts a user-friendly digital interface that simplifies cooking rice to perfection. Its programmable settings offer flexibility to adjust cooking times and modes, ensuring consistent results whether you’re preparing white rice, brown rice, or steaming vegetables. The inclusion of a steam and rinse basket enhances its functionality by allowing simultaneous steaming of vegetables or fish, making meal prep faster and more efficient.
Constructed with a sleek stainless steel exterior, this rice cooker adds a modern touch to your kitchen while providing durability and easy cleaning. Its compact size, measuring approximately 9.88 inches in height and weighing just 4 pounds, makes it easy to store or transport. Overall, this appliance is a versatile and practical choice for anyone looking to streamline their cooking routine without sacrificing quality or convenience.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Rice For Instant Pot 20-cup Cooker?
Long-grain white rice cooks well in the Instant Pot 20-Cup Cooker. It maintains texture and absorbs flavors evenly. Use the preset rice function for perfect results every time. This rice variety complements the cooker’s carb-reducing technology without compromising taste or texture.
Can I Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup?
Yes, the Instant Pot Zest 8 Cup Cooker can cook quinoa perfectly. It has a no-pressure cooking function ideal for grains like quinoa. Use the preset grain setting to ensure fluffy, well-cooked quinoa every time. This cooker also steams and cooks rice and oatmeal efficiently.
Is The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Good For Rice?
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini is excellent for cooking rice. Its slow cooker and rice functions ensure soft, fluffy rice. The 3-quart size is perfect for small households or quick meals. It also offers multiple cooking modes for versatile meal preparation.
How Many Cups Of Rice Does The Hamilton Beach Cooker Hold?
The Hamilton Beach Digital Rice Cooker holds 8 cups cooked rice, or 4 cups uncooked. It includes a steam and rinse basket for easy preparation. This stainless steel model is great for medium-sized families and offers precise digital controls for perfect rice every time.
What Rice Types Work Best In Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6 Quart?
The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6 Quart cooker handles white, brown, jasmine, and basmati rice well. Its multiple presets adjust cooking times to achieve ideal texture. This versatile cooker also steams, sautés, and makes yogurt for diverse meal options.
Conclusion
Choosing the best rice for your Instant Pot depends on your cooking needs and taste preferences. Each rice cooker and multi-cooker offers unique features to make cooking easy and convenient. Whether you want a simple rice cooker or a multi-functional pressure cooker, there is a perfect option for you.
Remember, using the right rice type ensures good texture and flavor every time. White rice cooks quickly, while brown rice needs more time but offers extra nutrients. Tools like the Instant Pot Duo and Hamilton Beach cooker provide versatility with preset functions.
With clear instructions and the right rice, you can enjoy delicious meals with little effort. Experiment with different rice types to find what suits you best. Your Instant Pot can handle everything from plain rice to grains like quinoa and oatmeal.
Cooking rice has never been simpler or more flexible with these great appliances.

Hello, This is Annie Walker, a 38-year-old blogger, founder, and editor of Cookware Guider from NY, USA. I am a cookware fanatic and passionate cooker. I love to cook with different types of cooking appliances (example: all types of cookware, rice cookers, slow cookers, etc) almost every day in my kitchen. I love to share my experience with my readers in my blog. Also, I enjoy helping people to solve their problems through my website. You can follow me on Twitter & Pinterest. To know details about my blog please check the about us page.
