Press SAUTE on the Instant Pot, wait for it to heat up. Once hot, add oil, followed by a bay leaf, cumin seeds, crushed cardamom, and garam masala.
Saute for 30 seconds until you can smell the aroma.
Add onions and salt. Saute for 5 minutes until golden.
This is what you should have.
Add drained rice.
Saute the rice with the onions and spices for 1-2 minutes until toasted up. Press CANCEL.
Now add water to the rice. Using a wooden spoon, scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot to make sure there is nothing sticking to the pot.
This is what you should have.
Cover the Instant Pot. Press HIGH PRESSURE for 5 minutes. Naturally, release the rice for at least 15 minutes.
Once done, you have perfectly cooked Jeera Rice with onions.