Instant Pot Fried Rice: A Flavorful Classic Dish

Looking for a fast, tasty, and satisfying meal that brings all the comfort of takeout but with a homemade touch? Instant Pot Fried Rice is the perfect solution. 

This recipe combines the traditional flavors of fried rice with the speed and convenience of modern kitchen appliances. 

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent looking for a quick dinner idea, or a foodie searching for a new recipe to try, this Instant Pot Fried Rice will hit the spot.

In this article, we’ll explore what makes this dish so special, delve into its origins, and walk you through the steps to make your own delicious fried rice at home. Let’s get cooking!

What is Instant Pot Fried Rice?

Instant Pot Fried Rice is a quick and easy variation of the traditional fried rice dish, made using an Instant Pot—an electric multi-cooker that saves time while locking in flavors. 

Instead of using a wok, the Instant Pot cooks the rice and sautéing the ingredients, creating the perfect fried rice in a fraction of the time.

It’s ideal for anyone who loves the rich, savory flavors of fried rice but wants the convenience and ease that an Instant Pot provides.

The Origin of Fried Rice

Fried rice originated in China during the Sui Dynasty (589–618 AD) as a way to use up leftover rice and prevent food waste.

Over time, it spread across Asia, each country adding its own unique twists. From the Indonesian nasi goreng to the Japanese yakimeshi, fried rice has become a staple comfort food.

The Instant Pot version brings this traditional dish into modern kitchens, speeding up the process while preserving the authentic flavors.

Where is Instant Pot Fried Rice Popular?

Instant Pot Fried Rice has gained popularity in North America and Europe, where the Instant Pot has become a go-to kitchen gadget.

In busy households, it’s a lifesaver, allowing people to make restaurant-quality fried rice in minutes without needing special cooking equipment.

Foodies and home cooks alike appreciate this recipe because it delivers big flavors in minimal time. This makes it a favorite in meal prep circles and weeknight dinner routines.

Nutritional Information

Fried rice can be as nutritious as it is delicious, especially when packed with vegetables and lean protein. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional benefits of Instant Pot Fried Rice:

• Calories: Around 350-400 per serving, depending on ingredients.
• Protein: 10-15 grams (with the addition of chicken, shrimp, or tofu).
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 50 grams from the rice.
• Fiber: 4-5 grams, especially when using brown rice or adding more veggies.
• Fat: 10-15 grams, depending on how much oil is used.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K (from vegetables) and iron and magnesium (from the rice and protein).

If you’re aiming to make it healthier, consider using less oil, opting for brown rice, or adding more greens like spinach or broccoli.

Flavor Profile and Ingredients

The beauty of fried rice lies in its simplicity yet bold flavor. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh vegetables creates a savory, slightly nutty taste that can be enhanced with your choice of protein or seasoning. Here are the key ingredients that make this dish shine:

• Rice: Day-old white or brown rice is ideal because it’s less sticky, giving the fried rice that perfect texture.
• Vegetables: Carrots, peas, onions, and bell peppers are common choices, adding color, crunch, and nutrients.
• Soy Sauce: Adds the umami flavor that fried rice is known for.
• Sesame Oil: Brings a subtle nutty richness to the dish.
• Eggs: Scrambled into the rice, they add protein and a silky texture.
• Protein Options: Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork work wonderfully to make this a complete meal.

Recipe Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice (or day-old rice)
• 1 ¼ cups water (for cooking rice)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• ½ cup frozen peas
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
• Green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Step-by-Step Recipe

Prepare the Rice

If you’re using fresh rice, rinse 1 cup of jasmine or basmati rice under cold water. Add it to the Instant Pot with 1 ¼ cups of water.

Close the lid, set it to “Manual” for 3 minutes, and let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

While the rice cooks, chop your vegetables (onions, carrots, peas, bell peppers). Once the rice is ready, remove it from the pot, and switch to the sauté mode.

Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, then toss in the vegetables. Sauté until they soften (about 3-4 minutes).

Scramble the Eggs

Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and crack two eggs into the center. Stir them quickly to scramble.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked rice back into the pot with the vegetables and eggs. Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Stir everything together to combine.

Add Protein (Optional)

If you’re adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, now is the time to toss it in. Stir and sauté for another 2 minutes to let all the flavors meld.

Tips for Beginners

• Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky for fried rice, so day-old rice is best. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to dry it out.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to mix in any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas.

Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot Fried Rice is versatile and pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Serve with a Side of Dumplings: For a full meal, pair the fried rice with homemade or frozen dumplings.
• Top with a Fried Egg: A perfectly fried egg with a runny yolk adds richness and extra protein to the dish.
• Add a Sprinkle of Green Onions or Sesame Seeds: Garnishing with fresh green onions or toasted sesame seeds adds texture and a pop of color.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Fried Rice offers a delicious, quick, and customizable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a fried rice fanatic or trying it for the first time, this recipe delivers all the savory flavors you love with the convenience of an Instant Pot.

Don’t forget to experiment with different proteins and vegetables to make the dish your own! We hope you enjoy this Instant Pot Fried Rice recipe.

Try it out and let us know in the comments how it turned out, or share your own unique variations!

FAQs