Barley Substitute for Brown Rice: Exact Ratio
Looking for a brown rice substitute? Barley works as a direct replacement. Use 1:1 in any recipe that calls for brown rice. This swap works best for soups, stews, risotto.
Best Substitute
Barley
1:1
Chewy and nutty with a heartier texture. Pearl barley cooks faster than hulled. Contains gluten.
Tips When Replacing Brown Rice in Recipes
Brown rice takes about 40-50 minutes to cook compared to 15-20 for white rice. To speed it up, soak brown rice for 30 minutes before cooking, which can reduce cook time by 10-15 minutes. Store brown rice in the refrigerator to prevent the natural oils in the bran from going rancid.
What Is Brown Rice and Why Substitute It?
A whole grain rice with only the outer hull removed, retaining the bran and germ layers. Brown rice has a nutty flavor, chewy texture, and significantly more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than white rice. It takes longer to cook but is more nutritious.
Barley is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of brown rice. For a complete list of brown rice substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full brown rice substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Brown Rice?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use barley instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can use barley as a substitute for brown rice. Use 1:1. Chewy and nutty with a heartier texture. Pearl barley cooks faster than hulled. Contains gluten.
How much barley equals brown rice?
Use 1:1 to replace brown rice with barley. Works best for soups, stews, risotto.
What is the best substitute for brown rice?
Barley is a popular substitute for brown rice. Use 1:1 for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our brown rice substitute page.
Is barley a vegan substitute for brown rice?
Yes, barley is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to brown rice. Use 1:1.