Best Instapot Wild Rice Recipes Vegetarian Lovers Will Enjoy

Wild rice is a fantastic grain that brings a nutty flavor and chewy texture to any dish. When cooked in an Instant Pot, wild rice becomes tender and perfectly fluffy without the usual long simmering time.

For vegetarians, it’s a versatile base that can be paired with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices to create hearty, nutritious, and satisfying meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, these best Instant Pot wild rice recipes vegetarian are designed to delight your taste buds and fuel your body.

In this blog post, we’ve curated three delicious vegetarian wild rice recipes that you can easily make in your Instant Pot. From a creamy mushroom medley to a vibrant southwestern bowl and a cozy autumn-inspired dish, there’s something for every mood and season.

Plus, cooking wild rice in the Instant Pot saves time and keeps the kitchen cool—perfect for busy cooks who want wholesome meals without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Instant Pot wild rice recipes are packed with flavor, healthy ingredients, and minimal prep. Using the Instant Pot ensures the rice cooks evenly and quickly, which is great for those who want to enjoy wild rice without the long wait.

Each recipe incorporates fresh vegetables, herbs, and plant-based protein options, making them perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to add more plant-forward meals to their diet.

Additionally, these recipes are highly customizable and can be adapted to your pantry staples or dietary preferences. Whether you want a creamy texture, a spicy kick, or a comforting bowl of autumn flavors, these dishes deliver on taste and nutrition.

They’re perfect for meal prepping or serving fresh for family dinners, and they pair well with a variety of sides and salads.

Ingredients

Recipe 1: Creamy Mushroom & Wild Rice

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for vegan)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe 2: Southwestern Wild Rice Bowl

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Recipe 3: Autumn Harvest Wild Rice

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
• Bowl for rinsing wild rice
• Serving bowls or plates

Instructions

Recipe 1: Creamy Mushroom & Wild Rice

1. Rinse the wild rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
2. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the olive oil.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
5. Add the rinsed wild rice, vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to Pressure Cook (Manual) on high for 25 minutes.
7. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
8. Open the lid, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Recipe 2: Southwestern Wild Rice Bowl

1. Rinse the wild rice well and set aside.
2. In the Instant Pot, combine wild rice, vegetable broth, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Seal the lid and set to Pressure Cook (Manual) on high for 22 minutes.
4. Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and stir in the lime juice.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

Recipe 3: Autumn Harvest Wild Rice

1. Rinse the wild rice and set aside.
2. Add the wild rice, vegetable broth, cubed butternut squash, dried cranberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
3. Lock the lid and pressure cook on high for 25 minutes.
4. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before quick releasing the rest.
5. Carefully open the lid and stir in the maple syrup and chopped walnuts.
6. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra walnuts or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Tips & Variations

Wild rice can vary in cooking time depending on its age and dryness. If you find your rice is too chewy after cooking, add 1/4 cup more broth next time and increase the pressure cooking time by 2-3 minutes.

• For a vegan version of the creamy mushroom recipe, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
• Add chopped kale or spinach to any recipe during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra boost of greens.
• Toast the wild rice in the Instant Pot on Sauté mode for 2-3 minutes before adding liquids to enhance the nutty flavor.
• Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, sage, or oregano to customize the flavor profiles.
• Try adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for more protein and texture in any of these recipes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These wild rice dishes can be served as a main course or as a hearty side. Pair the creamy mushroom wild rice with a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus for a balanced meal.

The southwestern bowl works wonderfully with guacamole, salsa, or a dollop of sour cream or plant-based yogurt, making it perfect for a casual, flavorful lunch or dinner.

The autumn harvest wild rice pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple kale salad, enhancing the seasonal flavors and textures.

For more vegetarian inspiration, check out our Julie Marie Eats Recipes and find creative ways to elevate your plant-based meals.

Conclusion

Cooking wild rice in your Instant Pot opens up endless possibilities for quick, delicious, and nutritious vegetarian meals. These three recipes showcase the versatility of wild rice, blending it with seasonal vegetables, protein-packed beans, and flavorful spices to create satisfying dishes that everyone will enjoy.

Whether you prefer the creamy comfort of mushrooms, the zesty punch of southwestern flavors, or the cozy sweetness of autumn harvest ingredients, Instant Pot wild rice recipes are a kitchen must-have.

Not only do these recipes save time, but they also encourage wholesome eating with simple, accessible ingredients. Experiment with the tips and variations to make these dishes your own.

And if you’re looking to expand your recipe repertoire, don’t miss the Magic Dough Recipe or the delightful Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

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