How to Cook Brown Rice in The Ninja Foodi

Learn how to cook perfectly fluffy brown rice in the Ninja Foodi with this easy guide. Enjoy a quick, hassle-free method for making brown rice every time. Whether serving it as a side dish or as the base for a stir-fry, this brown rice will not disappoint. Give it a try today!

Cooking brown rice in the Ninja Foodi is quick and easy, delivering perfectly fluffy rice every time. The Ninja Foodi’s pressure cooking function ensures the rice cooks evenly and faster than traditional stovetop methods, while the air crisping lid can be used to add a slight crisp on top if desired. By following simple steps and setting the pressure cooker, you can achieve a delicious and nutritious side dish in no time.

The Ninja Foodi makes cooking brown rice effortless, saving you time and ensuring consistently great results.

If you love other easy Ninja Foodi Recipes, try my recipe for Ninja Foodi Barbacoa Beef, Ninja Foodi Honey Garlic Chicken Bites, or Ninja Foodi Pork Tenderloin.

Why You Will Love Making Brown Rice In The Ninja Foodi

• Perfectly fluffy rice every time with minimal effort.
• Cuts down cooking time compared to traditional methods.
• Consistent results with precise water-to-rice measurements.
• Sauté ingredients before cooking for extra flavor.
• Non-stick pot makes cleaning up a breeze.
• Use air crisp lid for crispy, golden rice.

Ingredients Needed

• Brown rice – Nutritious, hearty whole grain for a filling meal.
• Water – Hydrates rice for perfect cooking consistency.
• Salt – Enhances flavor, bringing out rice’s natural taste.

How to Cook Brown Rice in The Ninja Foodi

Step One: Begin by rinsing your brown rice under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.

Step Two: Transfer the rinsed rice into the pot of the Ninja Foodi. Add 1¼ cups of water or broth for every brown rice. This ratio ensures the rice cooks thoroughly and absorbs the liquid completely. Add a pinch of salt and, if desired, a small amount of butter or oil. This will add flavor and a bit of richness to the rice.

Step Three: Secure the pressure cooker lid on the Ninja Foodi and set the valve to the ‘seal’ position. Choose the ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ setting, and set the brown rice timer for 22-25 minutes. The exact time might vary slightly depending on the type and brand of rice.

Step Four: Start the Ninja Foodi. It will take a few minutes to come up to pressure before the cooking time begins.

Step Five: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining steam and moisture. After the natural release, carefully turn the valve to ‘vent’ to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and use a fork to fluff the rice. This helps to separate the grains and release any extra steam.

Ninja Foodi Brown Rice Recipe Tips

• Rinse the Rice Well: Rinse your brown rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.
• Use the Right Water Ratio: For perfect brown rice, use 2 1/2 cups of water for every 2 cups of rice. Adjust slightly if needed based on your desired texture.
• Pressure Cook for Fluffiness: Set your Ninja Foodi to the “Pressure Cook” function for 22-25 minutes, depending on your rice’s brand and variety. This ensures a tender and fluffy result.
• Let the Pressure Release Naturally: Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the rice finish steaming and remain fluffy.
• Add Flavor: For extra flavor, sauté onions, garlic, or spices in the Foodi before cooking the rice. This infuses the rice with more depth.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Stick to the recommended rice-to-water ratio to avoid overfilling the pot. This ensures even cooking.
• Air Crisp for a Crispy Top: After cooking, you can use the air crisp function for a crispy top layer of rice, adding a nice texture to your dish.
• Let the Rice Rest: After cooking, let the rice sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the grains firm up and become fluffier.

Storing

• Storing: After cooking brown rice in the Ninja Foodi, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for easy access to leftovers.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the brown rice into freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to press out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: Reheat brown rice in the Ninja Foodi by adding a splash of water and using the “Pressure Cook” function for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, microwave the rice with a damp paper towel over it to retain moisture.

What To Serve With Ninja Foodi Brown Rice

Ninja Foodi brown rice is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. It complements grilled chicken, beef, or fish perfectly, adding a hearty and nutritious element to your plate. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside sautéed vegetables or a flavorful stir-fry with tofu. Brown rice also works wonderfully in bowls with toppings like avocado, beans, and a drizzle of dressing for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re making a simple dinner or prepping for meal prep, brown rice is an easy and delicious choice to round out any dish.

Brown Rice In Ninja Foodi Recipe Faqs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice in the Ninja Foodi? Yes, you can use white rice in the Ninja Foodi, but the cooking time and water ratio will be different. White rice cooks faster, so you’ll need to reduce the cooking time and water accordingly.

How do I avoid overcooking the rice in the Ninja Foodi? To prevent overcooking, make sure to use the correct water-to-rice ratio and stick to the recommended pressure cooking time of 22-25 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for best results.

Can I double the recipe in the Ninja Foodi? Yes, you can double the amount of rice and water, but be mindful not to exceed the maximum fill line in your Ninja Foodi. The cooking time will remain the same, but you may need to adjust the pressure release time.

Can I add seasoning or flavor to the rice while cooking? Absolutely! You can sauté onions, garlic, or spices like cumin or turmeric in the Ninja Foodi before adding the rice and water for extra flavor.

Can I cook frozen brown rice in the Ninja Foodi? It’s recommended to cook fresh rice for the best texture, but if you’re reheating frozen cooked rice, you can pressure cook it for a few minutes with a splash of water to steam it back to perfection.

Why does my rice sometimes come out too sticky or mushy? Sticky or mushy rice can happen if there’s too much water or the rice wasn’t rinsed properly. Be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and stick to the recommended water-to-rice ratio.

Can I cook other grains in the Ninja Foodi? Yes, the Ninja Foodi is great for cooking other grains like quinoa, farro, and barley. Adjust the cooking time and water ratio based on the type of grain.

More Ninja Foodi Recipes

• Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
• Instant Pot Green Beans
• Ninja Foodi Steak Tips
• Instant Pot Potato Salad
• Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes