Wheat Berries Substitute for Barley: Exact Ratio
Looking for a barley substitute? Wheat Berries works as a direct replacement. Use 1:1 in any recipe that calls for barley. This swap works best for salads, grain bowls, pilafs.
Best Substitute
Wheat Berries
1:1
Whole wheat kernels with a chewy, nutty flavor. Takes 45-60 minutes to cook.
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.
Wheat Berries 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 wheat berries instead of barley?
Yes, you can use wheat berries as a substitute for barley. Use 1:1. Whole wheat kernels with a chewy, nutty flavor. Takes 45-60 minutes to cook.
How much wheat berries equals barley?
Use 1:1 to replace barley with wheat berries. Works best for salads, grain bowls, pilafs.
What is the best substitute for barley?
Wheat Berries 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 wheat berries a vegan substitute for barley?
Yes, wheat berries is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to barley. Use 1:1.