Ingredient substitution guide
Best substitutes for Arborio rice
Best swap for Arborio rice: Short-grain white rice, 1:1; starchier result, works for risotto.
How we checked this: these swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes, and their ratios follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than one published chart. For exact amounts on many common swaps, see the NDSU and Colorado State University extension tables listed below. Editorial policy
What can I use instead of Arborio Rice?
The best swap for Arborio Rice is Short-Grain White Rice, 1:1; starchier result, works for risotto. Another option is Carnaroli Rice, 1:1; holds its bite better, the classic risotto upgrade. The table below also lists Pearl Barley, 3 swaps in all.
| Swap | Ratio and notes |
|---|---|
| Short-grain white rice | 1:1; starchier result, works for risotto |
| Carnaroli rice | 1:1; holds its bite better, the classic risotto upgrade |
| Pearl barley | 1:1 with more liquid and time; chewier, still creamy Diet and health: Contains gluten. |
Source and limits
These swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes to your kitchen, last updated . We remove swaps known to be unsafe, but not every swap has been tested in a kitchen, and a swap is cooking guidance, not an allergen or nutrition equivalent. Check labels and what the recipe needs before substituting.
The ratios and usage notes follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than a single published chart. These two university extension tables list exact amounts for many common swaps:
- Ingredient Substitutions (FN198), NDSU Extension (opens in a new tab)
- Ingredient Substitutions (9.329), Colorado State University Extension (opens in a new tab)
Browse every ingredient and read how these swaps are sourced.