Instant Pot Thai Basil Fried Rice (Ready in 30 Minutes)

This Instant Pot Thai Basil Fried Rice is bold, aromatic, and perfectly balanced with savory soy, subtle heat, and fresh herbs.

Cashews add crunch while basil and cilantro brighten every bite. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes — making it ideal for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Thanks to pressure cooking, you can enjoy this Thai-inspired favorite in a fraction of the time traditional stovetop methods require — no hour-long babysitting needed.

What You Will Need To Make Thai Basil Fried Rice

1 1/4 cups jasmine rice 

1 1/4 cups water 

1 1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

3 – 4 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced

1/2 inch fresh ginger, chopped

1/3 cup whole raw cashews

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

1 medium red bell pepper, seeds removed, thinly sliced

1 Serrano chili, seeds and vain removed, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1/2 tablespoon hoisin sauce

1 teaspoon sriracha or to taste

1/4 teaspoon each salt and black pepper

1/2 cup thai basil, chopped

1/4 cup whole thai basil leaves

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

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Need a substitution? View our kitchen swaps reference guide for smart, flavor-forward ingredient swaps — covering aromatics, pantry staples, dairy, proteins, and more.

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How To Cook Thai Basil Fried Rice

Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess surface starch and helps prevent clumping.

If you’ve ever wondered whether this step truly matters, our guide on Should You Rinse Your Rice explains the science behind it and when it makes a difference.

Add the rinsed rice to the Instant Pot with water. Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 3 minutes.

Allow a 10-minute natural release, then carefully quick release remaining pressure. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer to a bowl.

Sauté the Aromatics

Press Sauté (no need to clean the pot). Once hot, add oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Stir in cashews and cook 1 minute.

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If you enjoy cooking with fresh and dried chilies, explore our Spices & Flavors Guide to better understand how different peppers build heat and depth in recipes.

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Add onion, red bell pepper, and green chili. Cook 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Build the Flavor

Push vegetables to one side. Add soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, and sriracha. Stir, then combine everything together.

Return cooked rice to the pot and gently toss to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

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Turn off Instant Pot. Stir in chopped basil and cilantro until just wilted. Fold in whole Thai basil leaves and serve immediately.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Fried Rice

• Don’t skip Thai basil — it delivers the signature aroma.
• Adjust heat by increasing or reducing sriracha and green chili.
• Add crispy tofu, shrimp, or chicken for a protein boost.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to refresh the texture.

Rice is one of the most versatile staples you can keep in your kitchen.

Once you master a few simple techniques, it becomes the foundation for everything from bold, savory stir-fries to bright, herb-forward sides and satisfying grain salads.

If you’re inspired to explore more ways to build flavor around rice, here are a few reader favorites to try next.

More Ways to Use Rice

If this Thai basil version speaks to you, there are plenty of other ways to build flavor around a simple bowl of rice.

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For a heartier, protein-forward option, try our Thai Chicken Fried Rice, which layers savory depth with tender chicken and classic aromatics.

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Looking for something fresh and texture-driven? The Chickpea Kale and Crispy Rice Salad with Avocado Herb Vinaigrette transforms rice into a vibrant, satisfying salad.

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For bright, citrus-forward flavor, Cilantro-Lime Rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or roasted vegetables.

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And if you enjoy fragrant rice variations made in the pressure cooker, Instant Pot Coconut Rice is subtly sweet, aromatic, and incredibly versatile.

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