Best Brown Rice Substitutes for Healthy Meals and Grain Bowls
The best substitute for brown rice is Farro at a 1:1 ratio. It works best for grain bowls, salads, soups. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Farro
1:1
Ancient grain with a similar nutty, chewy texture. Slightly more robust flavor. Contains gluten.
What are the other substitutes for brown rice?
Quinoa
1:1
Lighter and fluffier than brown rice but equally nutritious. Cooks in 15 minutes vs 45 for brown rice.
Barley
1:1
Chewy and nutty with a heartier texture. Pearl barley cooks faster than hulled. Contains gluten.
Wild Rice
1:1
Actually a grass seed, not true rice. Nuttier, earthier flavor with a dramatic dark color.
Bulgur
1:1
Cracked wheat with a lighter, fluffier texture. Cooks in just 10-15 minutes. Contains gluten.
What should you know before substituting brown rice?
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.
How do you substitute brown rice in a recipe?
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.
The best substitute for brown rice depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Farro (1:1), which works well for grain bowls, salads, soups.
If you need a different option, Quinoa (1:1) is another reliable choice. Lighter and fluffier than brown rice but equally nutritious. Cooks in 15 minutes vs 45 for brown rice.
When substituting brown 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 grain is similar to brown rice?
Farro is the most similar grain to brown rice, with a comparable nutty flavor and chewy texture. Quinoa is another great option that cooks faster and is gluten-free. Both provide similar nutritional benefits.
Can I substitute quinoa for brown rice?
Yes, quinoa is an excellent substitute for brown rice at a 1:1 ratio. It cooks in just 15 minutes compared to 45 minutes for brown rice, has more protein, and is equally versatile in grain bowls, salads, and side dishes.
Why does brown rice take so long to cook?
Brown rice retains its bran and germ layers, which are tougher than the starchy endosperm of white rice. These layers require more water and time to soften. Soaking for 30 minutes beforehand can reduce cooking time by 10-15 minutes.