Out of Arborio rice, one case
Arborio rice substitutes, case by case
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Carnaroli rice
Same amount as the arborio rice
The best substitutes for arborio rice are carnaroli rice, short-grain rice, sushi rice, or bomba rice. Use 1:1 ratio and follow these techniques for optimal results.
- Best for —
- risotto
One casethe full arborio rice card
Why it works
Arborio riceArborio rice is a short-grain rice with high starch content that creates a creamy texture when cooked. The recommended substitutes work because they provide similar starch content and can be used in the same cooking applications. Each substitute offers different benefits depending on your specific needs and available ingredients.
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of arborio rice | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carnaroli ricerisotto | Same amount | No verdict on record |
| 2 | Short-grain ricerisotto | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Sushi ricerisotto | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Bomba ricepaella | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Pearl barleyrisotto | Same amount | No verdict on record |
Carnaroli rice
similar taste, creamier texture
Premium Italian rice with higher starch content than arborio. Creates creamier, more stable risotto.
- Best for
- risotto, rice pudding, when you want creaminess, Italian dishes
Carnaroli rice is often considered superior to arborio for risotto due to its higher starch content and better texture.
Short-grain rice
similar taste and texture
Any short-grain rice variety like Calrose or Bomba rice can work well as substitutes for arborio rice.
- Best for
- risotto, rice pudding, when you want creaminess, general cooking
Short-grain rice varieties like Calrose or Bomba rice can work well as substitutes for arborio rice.
Sushi rice
similar taste and texture
Short-grain rice with similar starch content to arborio rice. Can create a creamy texture when cooked properly.
- Best for
- risotto, rice pudding, when you want creaminess, Asian dishes
Sushi rice has similar starch content to arborio rice and can create a creamy texture when cooked properly.
Bomba rice
similar taste and texture
Spanish short-grain rice with high starch content. Good for paella and creamy rice dishes.
- Best for
- paella, risotto, when you want creaminess, Spanish dishes
Bomba rice has similar starch content to arborio rice and is good for paella and creamy rice dishes.
Pearl barley
nutty · similar texture
Whole grain with different flavor than arborio rice but provides similar creamy texture and whole grain benefits.
- Best for
- risotto, when you want whole grains, when you want nutty flavor, healthier options
Pearl barley has a different flavor than arborio rice but provides similar creamy texture and whole grain benefits.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting arborio rice, consider the starch content and creaminess you want. The recommended substitutes work because they provide similar functionality to arborio rice in various cooking applications.
Tips for substituting arborio rice
5 tips- Arborio rice should be stirred constantly while cooking to release its starch and create creamy texture
- Arborio rice absorbs liquid slowly, so add stock gradually and stir frequently
- Arborio rice is essential for traditional Italian risotto
- Store arborio rice in an airtight container in a cool, dry place
- Toasting arborio rice before adding liquid can enhance its nutty flavor
Notes on arborio rice
- Use carnaroli rice for superior risotto results
- Mix different rice varieties for complex flavor profiles
- Consider the specific dish when choosing your substitute
- Use short-grain rice for similar texture and creaminess
Questions
5 questionsCan I use regular rice instead of arborio rice?
Yes, short-grain rice can substitute for arborio rice in most recipes, but it may not be as creamy. Medium-grain rice can also work but will have less starch content.
What's the difference between arborio and carnaroli rice?
Carnaroli rice is often considered superior to arborio for risotto due to its higher starch content and better texture. Both are Italian short-grain rices with similar cooking properties.
Can I use sushi rice instead of arborio rice?
Yes, sushi rice can substitute for arborio rice in a 1:1 ratio. It has similar starch content and can create a creamy texture when cooked properly.
Why is arborio rice so expensive?
Arborio rice is a premium Italian rice variety that's specifically grown for its high starch content and creamy texture. Its quality and specialized growing conditions contribute to its higher price.
Do I need to adjust the recipe when substituting arborio rice?
Generally no ratio adjustment is needed, but consider the starch content. Some substitutes may need more or less liquid and stirring time to achieve the desired creaminess.