There are a few reasons why you might need to substitute for farro in your favorite dish. Maybe you can’t find it at the store, or maybe you’re on a gluten-free diet.
Whatever the reason, we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll list all of the best substitutes for farro and explain the differences between them.
We’ll also provide examples of recipes that use these substitutes so you can see how they work in practice.
With these tips, you’ll be able to easily substitute for farro no matter what dish you’re making!
Substitutes for Farro
- Kamut
- Triticale Berries
- Freekeh
- Rye Berries
- Bulgur
- Brown Rice
- Wheat Berries
- Quinoa
- Barley
Kamut
If you’re looking for a substitution for farro, Kamut is an excellent option.
This whole grain is similar in size and shape to farro, making it a perfect swap in recipes.
Kamut is also rich in fiber and protein, making it a filling and satisfying option.
Additionally, Kamut has a nutty flavor that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to cooking with Kamut, so don’t be afraid to get creative.
Try substituting Kamut for farro in soups, salads, pilafs, and more. You may find that you like Kamut even better than farro!
Triticale Berries
Triticale is a hybrid grain that was developed by crossing wheat and rye.
It has a higher protein content than wheat, and it is also more resistant to disease and pests.
For these reasons, triticale is often used as a substitute for farro in recipes.
When used in place of farro, triticale will add a nutty flavor to the dish. It is also a good source of fiber and vitamins B and E.
Because of its hearty texture, triticale is best suited for recipes that call for cooked grains, such as risotto or pilaf.
When substituting triticale for farro, be sure to cook the grain thoroughly before adding it to the dish.
Triticale can also be used in place of oats in baked goods such as bread and muffins.
When substituting triticale for oats, the baked goods will have a chewy texture.
Freekeh
Freekeh is a type of green wheat that is harvested while the grains are still young and soft.
This gives it a higher moisture content than mature wheat, which results in a chewier texture.
Freekeh is often used as a rice substitute, but it can also be used in place of farro.
The main benefit of freekeh is its high fiber content. This not only helps to promote digestive health, but it can also help to regulate blood sugar levels.
Freekeh is also a good source of protein and vitamins A, C, and K. While it has a nutty flavor, it is not as pronounced as that of farro.
As such, it can be used in a variety of recipes without overpowering the other flavors.
Freekeh can be found in most health food stores, as well as some regular grocery stores.
When substituting freekeh for farro, it is important to simmer the grain for longer than you would farro.
This will help soften the grain and allow it to absorb the dish’s flavors.
Rye Berries
Rye berries can be used as a substitute for farro in several different recipes. For example, they can be used in salads, soups, and even bread.
Rye berries have several benefits that make them a suitable replacement for farro.
First, they are high in fiber and protein, which makes them a filling and nutritious option.
Additionally, they have a high water content, which helps to keep the recipe moist.
Finally, rye berries have a nutty flavor that complements many other ingredients.
When substituting rye berries for farro, it is important to cook them properly so that they are soft and easy to chew.
Additionally, the recipe may need to be adjusted slightly to account for the different textures of the rye berries.
Bulgur
Bulgur is made from whole wheat kernels that have been boiled and then dried. This gives it a light, fluffy texture with a mild flavor.
In terms of nutrient content, bulgur is a much better source of fiber than farro. It is also lower in calories and fat.
For these reasons, bulgur makes an excellent substitute for farro in dishes such as salads, pilafs, and stuffings.
When using bulgur as a substitute for farro, it is important to note that it will absorb liquid more quickly than farro.
As a result, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid used in your recipe accordingly.
Brown Rice
If you can’t find farro, brown rice is an excellent substitute.
Brown rice has a similar chewy texture and nutty flavor, making it ideal for use in dishes like pilafs, salads, and soups.
Additionally, brown rice is more affordable than farro and readily available at most supermarkets.
When substituting brown rice for farro, simply use an equal amount of rice in your recipe.
For best results, cook the rice according to the package instructions before adding it to your dish.
Wheat Berries
Wheat berries offer several advantages as a replacement for farro in recipes.
For starters, wheat berries are a good source of fiber and protein, making them a healthier option than refined grains like white rice.
They also have a milder flavor than farro, which makes them ideal for use in salads and other dishes where you don’t want the grain to overpower the other flavors.
Additionally, wheat berries are less likely to become mushy when cooked, so they can be a great option for dishes that require a bit of texture.
Ultimately, whether you’re looking for a healthier option or just want to experiment with new grains, wheat berries are worth considering as a substitute for farro.
Quinoa
One of the substitutions I have made recently is quinoa for farro. Quinoa is a nutrient-rich grain that is high in protein and fiber.
It has a nutty flavor that pairs well with other ingredients. Farro is a type of wheat that has a chewy texture.
It is often used in salads and soups.
While the two grains are similar in some ways, they have different flavors and textures.
Quinoa is a suitable substitute for farro in dishes such as salads, soups, and grain bowls.
The only change you may notice is that quinoa will cook faster than farro.
Barley
Barley is a type of grain that is similar to farro in terms of texture and flavor. It is also relatively easy to find and relatively affordable.
Additionally, barley can be used in many of the same dishes as farro.
For example, it can be used in soups, salads, pasta dishes, and rice dishes.
In terms of texture, flavor, and versatility, barley is an excellent substitute for farro.
FAQ
What is the best substitute for farro?
The best substitute for farro will depend on what dish you’re making.
If you’re looking for a substitute that has a similar texture, then Kamut or triticale berries would be a good choice.
If you’re looking for a substitute that has a similar flavor, then freekeh or rye berries would be a good choice.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free substitute, then quinoa or brown rice would be a good choice.
What is the best substitute for farro in a salad?
The best substitute for farro in a salad would be either Kamut or triticale berries.
These substitutes have a similar texture to farro, so they will work well in a salad.
What is the best substitute for farro in a soup?
The best substitute for farro in a soup would be either freekeh or rye berries.
These substitutes have a similar flavor to farro, so they will work well in a soup.
What is the best substitute for farro in a stir-fry?
The best substitute for farro in a stir-fry would be either quinoa or brown rice.
These substitutes are gluten-free, so they will work well in a stir-fry.
Conclusion
There are several substitutes for farro that you can use in your cooking. The best substitute for farro will depend on the dish you’re making.
So go ahead and experiment with different substitutes to find the one that works best for you!