Out of Farro, one case
Farro substitutes in recipes
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Barley
Same amount as the farro
The best substitutes for farro in recipes are barley, brown rice, quinoa, or wheat berries depending on the dish and desired texture. Use a 1:1 ratio and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- soups
One casethe full farro card
Why it works
FarroThese grains provide similar functionality to farro in recipes. They offer chewy texture, nutty flavor, and can be used in the same types of dishes with similar cooking methods.
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of farro | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Barleysoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Brown ricepilafs | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Quinoasalads | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Wheat berriessoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Bulgursalads | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Freekehsoups | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Barley
similar taste and texture
Similar grain with chewy texture and nutty flavor
- Best for
- soups, stews, salads, pilafs, risottos
- Cooking time
- 25-30 minutes
Similar texture and cooking time to farro. Great for hearty dishes.
Brown rice
similar taste, different texture
Whole grain with similar nutritional profile
- Best for
- pilafs, salads, soups, side dishes, stuffed vegetables
- Cooking time
- 45-50 minutes
Different texture but similar nutty flavor. Takes longer to cook.
Quinoa
different taste and texture
Protein-rich grain with similar cooking method
- Best for
- salads, pilafs, soups, side dishes, protein bowls
- Cooking time
- 15-20 minutes
Different texture but similar nutritional benefits. Rinse before cooking.
Wheat berries
similar taste and texture
Whole wheat kernels with similar texture
- Best for
- soups, salads, pilafs, side dishes, stuffed vegetables
- Cooking time
- 45-60 minutes
Similar texture and cooking time to farro. Takes longer to cook.
Bulgur
different taste, similar texture
Pre-cooked wheat with similar texture and quick preparation
- Best for
- salads, pilafs, soups, side dishes, stuffed vegetables
- Cooking time
- 10-15 minutes
Quick cooking and similar texture to farro. Great for quick meals.
Freekeh
different taste, similar texture
Roasted green wheat with similar texture and smoky flavor
- Best for
- soups, salads, pilafs, side dishes, stuffed vegetables
- Cooking time
- 25-30 minutes
Similar texture with smoky flavor. Great for Mediterranean-style dishes.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting grains for farro in recipes, consider the texture and flavor you want. Barley and wheat berries work well for similar texture, while brown rice provides similar flavor.
Tips for substituting farro
6 tips- Adjust cooking time based on the substitute chosen
- Use vegetable or chicken broth for more flavor
- Rinse quinoa and bulgur before cooking
- Let grains rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking for better texture
- Store cooked grains in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Consider the texture and flavor you want in your final dish
Questions
5 questionsWhat is the best substitute for farro in recipes?
Barley is often considered the best substitute for farro in recipes because it has similar nutty flavor and chewy texture, and cooks in about the same time.
Can I use brown rice instead of farro in recipes?
Yes, brown rice can substitute for farro in most recipes. It has similar nutty flavor and nutritional benefits, though it has a different texture and takes longer to cook.
How do I adjust cooking time when substituting grains?
Adjust cooking time based on the specific grain chosen. Quinoa cooks in 15-20 minutes, barley and farro in 25-30 minutes, and brown rice in 45-50 minutes.
Can I use quinoa instead of farro in recipes?
Yes, quinoa can substitute for farro in most recipes. It has different texture but similar nutritional benefits and cooks quickly, making it great for quick meals.
Do I need to adjust the recipe when substituting grains?
Generally no, you can use a 1:1 ratio when substituting grains for farro. Just adjust cooking time based on the specific grain chosen.