Instant Pot Saffron Rice

5 from 103 votes

Fragrant and aromatic saffron rice is a delicious change from plain white rice. Made using Basmati rice and saffron strands, it is perfect as a side dish with Indian curries, kebabs, or dal. When made in the Instant Pot, it comes together in 20 minutes and needs no monitoring, making it a hassle-free addition to your meal prep routine. This recipe is not only super easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends. The subtly savory flavors of this saffron-infused rice are complemented by a variety of spices and herbs, resulting in a tender, fluffy, and delicious rice that's perfect for any occasion. Try this easy Instant Pot saffron rice recipe today and discover a new favorite side dish!

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Total Time25

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: Indian

Diet: Gluten Free, Hindu, Vegetarian

Servings:

Calories: 216kcal

Author: Shilpa Kerur

Equipment

Instant Pot

Ingredients

1½ cups basmati rice
½ teaspoon saffron
2 tablespoon ghee (use store-bought or homemade ghee)
2 whole cardamom optional
4 whole cloves optional
2 tablespoon cashew
1 large yellow onion
½-1 teaspoon salt adjust as per taste
1¾ cups water divided

Instructions

Prep:

Wash the rice thoroughly in running water until the water runs clear. Drain all the water from rinsing and add fresh water. Soak it for 5 minutes.
Take saffron strands in a small bowl and crush them using the back of a spoon. Add ¼ cup of water and give it a stir. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

Make the rice:

Set the Instant Pot in saute mode and add the ghee. Once it heats, add cardamom, cloves, and cashew. Saute until the cashew begins to turn golden brown.
Add the onions and saute for 3 minutes, until the onions begin to turn translucent. Cancel the saute mode.
Drain all the water from the rice and add it to the pot along with soaked saffron and salt.
Add 1½ cups of water and give it a good mix. Close the Instant Pot lid.
Pressure cook for 5 minutes. Do a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
Open the lid and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently mix the rice.
Serve with curries, kebabs, or roasted veggies.

Video

Notes

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This will remove excess starch and ensure that the rice cooks evenly.

Saffron is the key ingredient in this dish, so be sure to use good quality saffron. Look for saffron that has a deep red color and a strong aroma.

To infuse the saffron flavor into the rice, you can soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water or milk for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the rice. This will ensure that the saffron flavor is evenly distributed throughout the rice and also give the rice that beautiful color.

After cooking, let the rice sit in the Instant Pot for a few minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This will allow the rice to absorb any excess moisture, resulting in even more tender and fluffy rice.

Nutrition