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Out of arborio rice?

Arborio Rice substitutes

Arborio Rice is Short-grain rice with high starch content, essential for creamy risotto.

Use this

Carnaroli Rice

Use the same amount as the arborio rice you are replacing

Close matchBest for risotto

The best substitutes for arborio rice are carnaroli rice, vialone nano, or short-grain white rice, depending on the use.

At a glance

Every arborio rice substitute on one screen. Tap a name for detail.

Arborio Rice substitutes compared
#SubstituteInstead of arborio rice, use
1Carnaroli RiceSame amount
2Vialone NanoSame amount
3Short-Grain White RiceSame amount
4Sushi RiceSame amount

Every arborio rice substitute

Ranked, with the exact amount and what changes

Substitutes for Arborio Rice with ratios

  1. 1. Carnaroli Rice

    Close match

    Use the same amount

    Similar rice with higher starch content and creamier texture

    What changes
    Best for
    risotto, rice dishes, Italian cooking, creamy rice dishes

    Considered the 'king of risotto rice', holds shape better

  2. 2. Vialone Nano

    Close match

    Use the same amount

    Smaller grain with similar starch content

    What changes
    Best for
    risotto, rice dishes, Italian cooking, soups

    Smaller grain, absorbs liquid more quickly

  3. 3. Short-Grain White Rice

    Close match

    Use the same amount

    Generic short-grain rice with similar texture

    What changes
    Best for
    risotto, rice dishes, general cooking, budget-friendly option

    More widely available, may need more stirring

  4. 4. Sushi Rice

    Close match

    Use the same amount

    Short-grain rice with similar starch content

    What changes
    Best for
    risotto, rice dishes, Asian cooking, sticky rice dishes

    Very sticky when cooked, good for creamy dishes

Tips for substituting arborio rice

  • Arborio rice is essential for authentic risotto
  • Don't rinse arborio rice before cooking to preserve starch
  • Stir constantly while cooking risotto for creamy texture
  • Use warm stock when making risotto

Questions about arborio rice substitutes

Can I use regular long-grain rice for risotto?

Long-grain rice won't create the same creamy texture as arborio. Short-grain rice is essential for proper risotto.

What's the difference between arborio and carnaroli?

Carnaroli has more starch and holds its shape better, making it less likely to become mushy during cooking.

Can I substitute arborio rice in paella?

Yes, arborio can work in paella, but bomba rice is the traditional choice for authentic Spanish paella.

Need a different ingredient?

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