Brown Rice Substitute for Barley: Exact Ratio
Looking for a barley substitute? Brown Rice works as a direct replacement. Use 1:1 in any recipe that calls for barley. This swap works best for soups, stews, pilafs.
Best Substitute
Brown Rice
1:1
Gluten-free with a similar hearty character. Less chewy but provides good body in soups.
Tips When Replacing Barley in Recipes
Pearl barley cooks in about 30 minutes; hulled barley takes 45-60 minutes. For beef barley soup, pearl barley is standard. Barley releases starch as it cooks, which naturally thickens soups and stews. If using a substitute, add a small amount of cornstarch for similar thickening.
What Is Barley and Why Substitute It?
An ancient cereal grain with a chewy texture and mild, nutty flavor. Pearl barley (most common) has the hull and bran removed, while hulled barley retains more fiber. Barley is popular in soups, stews, risotto, and salads.
Brown Rice is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of barley. For a complete list of barley substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full barley substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Barley?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of barley?
Yes, you can use brown rice as a substitute for barley. Use 1:1. Gluten-free with a similar hearty character. Less chewy but provides good body in soups.
How much brown rice equals barley?
Use 1:1 to replace barley with brown rice. Works best for soups, stews, pilafs.
What is the best substitute for barley?
Brown Rice is a popular substitute for barley. Use 1:1 for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our barley substitute page.
Is brown rice a vegan substitute for barley?
Yes, brown rice is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to barley. Use 1:1.