Barley substitutes
Barley substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Farro
Same amount as the barley
Similar grain with different texture.
The best substitutes for barley are farro, brown rice, or quinoa, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- soups
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of barley | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Farrosoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Brown ricesoups | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 3 | Quinoasoups | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Wheat berriessoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Bulgursoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Pearl couscoussoups | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Farro
similar taste, different texture
Similar grain with different texture.
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, pilafs
Different texture, similar nuttiness.
Brown rice
different taste and texture
Similar grain with different texture.
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, pilafs
Different texture, similar nuttiness.
Quinoa
different taste and texture
Similar grain with different texture.
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, pilafs
Different texture, similar nuttiness.
Wheat berries
similar taste, different texture
Similar grain with different texture.
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, pilafs
Different texture, similar nuttiness.
Bulgur
similar taste, different texture
Similar grain with different texture.
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, pilafs
Different texture, similar nuttiness.
Pearl couscous
different taste and texture
Similar grain with different texture.
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, pilafs
Different texture, similar nuttiness.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use farro instead of barley?
Yes, farro is a good substitute for barley. It has a different texture but similar nuttiness and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between barley and farro?
Barley is a type of grain with a chewy texture, while farro is an ancient wheat grain with a similar texture. Both have nutty flavor but different compositions.
Can I use brown rice instead of barley?
Yes, brown rice can work as a substitute, though it has a different texture. It provides similar nuttiness and can be used in most recipes.
Why is barley so popular in cooking?
Barley is popular because it adds nutty, chewy texture and is versatile in many different types of cuisine and dishes.
Tips for substituting barley
6 tips- Barley adds nutty, chewy texture to dishes
- Barley can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Barley pairs well with vegetables, herbs, and broths
- Barley works well in soups, stews, and salads
- Barley can be used to make pilafs and risottos
- Store barley in a cool, dry place