Substitute for Black Rice: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for black rice is Wild Rice at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Wild Rice
Same amount (1:1)
Wild Rice is a workable stand-in for black rice. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for black rice?
Black Rice Flakes
Use 67%
Black Rice Flakes works as a substitute for black rice in many recipes. Use 67% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Brown Rice
Same amount (1:1)
Brown Rice is a workable stand-in for black rice. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Red Rice
Same amount (1:1)
Red Rice is a workable stand-in for black rice. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting black rice?
Wild Rice is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to black rice in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Cooking time and final texture are usually the biggest differences, so check for doneness early.
How do you substitute black rice in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for black rice and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Wild Rice is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role black rice plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for black rice depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Wild Rice (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Black Rice Flakes (Use 67%) is another reliable choice. Black Rice Flakes works as a substitute for black rice in many recipes. Use 67% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting black rice, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Black Rice?
Wild Rice is the best place to start for black rice. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Black Rice?
This page lists 4 substitutes for black rice. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.