Arborio rice is a key ingredient in dishes like risotto and paella. But sometimes, you just won’t have any on hand to prepare a dish you want.
Luckily, we’ve got you covered if you’re looking for a substitute because you don’t have arborio rice on hand or you’re trying to cut down on carbs.
This article will list 12 arborio rice substitutes that will give your dish the same flavor profile without any noticeable difference.
We’ll also provide the ratios to use when substituting and some examples of how we’ve used these substitutes in our cooking.
Substitutes for Arborio Rice
- Red Cargo Rice
- Jasmine Rice
- Sticky Rice
- Bulgur Wheat
- Couscous
- Quinoa
- Farro Wheat
- Brown Rice
- Pearled Barley
- Sushi Rice
- Carnaroli Rice
- Basmati Rice
Red Cargo Rice
If you’re looking for a substitute for arborio rice, red cargo rice is a great option.
This type of rice is often used in Spanish and paella dishes, and it has a similar texture to arborio rice.
When cooked, red cargo rice is slightly softer than arborio rice, but it still has a creamy consistency.
One benefit of using red cargo rice is that it’s more forgiving than arborio rice. If you overcook it, the rice will still be flavorful and moist.
Additionally, red cargo rice is packed with nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to arborio rice, red cargo rice is a great option.
Jasmine Rice
If you’re looking for a substitute for arborio rice, jasmine rice is a great option.
Jasmine rice is a type of long-grain rice that is often used in Asian cuisine.
It has a slightly sweet flavor and a fragrant aroma.
When cooked, jasmine rice is soft and fluffy.
This makes it a great choice for dishes like risotto, where you want the rice to be creamy and have a bit of bite to it.
Jasmine rice can also be used in stir-fries, stuffed peppers, and other rice-based dishes.
Keep in mind that jasmine rice doesn’t absorb liquid as well as arborio rice, so you may need to add a little extra broth or water to your dish.
Sticky Rice
Sticky rice is a great substitute for arborio rice.
It’s perfect for risottos and other rice dishes where you need the rice to be nice and sticky.
There are various benefits of using sticky rice.
For one, it is much cheaper than arborio rice, so it can be a great way to save money on your groceries.
Additionally, sticky rice is much more versatile than arborio rice; it can be used in a variety of recipes, including stir-fries, soups, and even desserts.
And finally, sticky rice is easy to cook; all you need to do is soak it in water for a few hours before cooking it in boiling water.
The only downside of using sticky rice is that it doesn’t have the same creamy texture as arborio rice.
But if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, then sticky rice is a great option.
Bulgur Wheat
Bulgur wheat is a great option if you’re looking for a substitute for arborio rice.
This whole grain can be used in many of the same dishes as arborio rice, including risotto, pilaf, and soup.
Bulgur wheat is a good source of fiber and protein, and it has a nutty flavor that pairs well with other ingredients.
Keep in mind that bulgur wheat will absorb liquid more quickly than arborio rice, so you may need to add more liquid to your dish.
Couscous
Couscous is a great substitute for arborio rice. It can be used in recipes that call for risotto, paella, or any other dish where you would normally use rice.
Couscous is made from semolina flour, and it has a similar texture to the rice.
It is also very absorbent, so it will absorb the flavors of the dish you are making.
You may need to cook the couscous for a few minutes longer than the rice.
Quinoa
For those looking for a bit of a change, or those with gluten sensitivities, quinoa makes a great substitution for arborio rice.
Quinoa is higher in protein than arborio rice, and it cooks up in about the same amount of time.
One advantage of quinoa over arborio rice is that it doesn’t get as mushy when cooked, so it’s perfect for dishes where you want a bit more texture, like risotto.
That said, quinoa does have a slightly different flavor than arborio rice, so it’s not a perfect substitute for every dish.
Farro Wheat
Farro wheat is a great substitute for arborio rice. It has a similar texture and flavor, making it a good choice for risotto, pilaf, and other dishes that call for Arborio rice.
The main benefit of using farro wheat is that it is higher in fiber than Arborio rice.
This means that it will fill you up faster and help you to stay regular.
Farro wheat is also a good source of minerals such as iron and magnesium.
When substituting farro wheat for Arborio rice, you should use 1 teaspoon of farro wheat for 2 spoons of farro Arborio rice.
The only downside to using farro wheat is that it takes longer to cook than Arborio rice.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is an excellent substitute for arborio rice. It has a similar texture and taste, but it is healthier and more affordable.
Additionally, brown rice is more versatile than arborio rice.
It can be used in a variety of recipes, including risotto, paella, and stir-fry.
Brown rice will take longer to cook than arborio rice, so be sure to allow extra time when preparing your dish.
Additionally, brown rice has a nuttier flavor than arborio rice, so you may need to adjust your seasoning accordingly.
Pearled Barley
Pearled barley is a great substitute for arborio rice. It can be used in risottos, pilafs, and other rice dishes.
The benefits of using pearled barley are that it is less expensive than arborio rice, and it is more nutritious.
Pearled barley has more fiber and protein than arborio rice.
It also has a nutty flavor that pairs well with other ingredients.
Pearled barley will take longer to cook than arborio rice, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Sushi Rice
Sushi rice is a great substitute for arborio rice.
Its benefits include it being cheaper and having a more firm texture.
Sushi rice is also less likely to stick together, making it a healthier option.
Sushi rice can also be used in other recipes such as risotto or paella.
While it may not be as creamy as arborio rice, it still makes a delicious dish.
Carnaroli Rice
Carnaroli rice is often used in risotto recipes, as it has a high starch content which helps to create a creamy texture.
However, it can also be used in other dishes such as paella and risotto cakes.
The main difference between the two types of rice is that carnaroli rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is a great substitute for arborio rice.
It is light and fluffy and has a nutty flavor.
Basmati rice is a good choice for recipes that call for Arborio rice, such as risotto, paella, and pilaf.
Basmati rice has a similar texture and flavor to arborio rice, making it a perfect replacement in many recipes.
Plus, basmati rice is more versatile than arborio rice and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Conclusion
There are many substitutes for arborio rice.
Each has its benefits and drawbacks.
Ultimately, the best substitute for arborio rice is the one that you have on hand and that will work best in the dish you are preparing.
With a little trial and error, you are sure to find a replacement that you love.
So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect arborio rice substitute for your next meal.
Happy cooking!