Pearl Barley vs Brown Rice

A side-by-side guide to substituting Brown Rice for Pearl Barley (or vice versa).

Quick answer

Brown Rice works as a 1:1 swap for Pearl Barley in most recipes.

Side-by-side

Pearl Barley

Base unit: cup

Read the full guide: Pearl Barley

Brown Rice

Conversion: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount)

Tags: commonbudget

Notes: Slightly softer texture but comparable earthiness. Takes about the same cooking time; works well in soups and risotto-style dishes.

Read the full guide: Brown Rice

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When to use Brown Rice instead of Pearl Barley

Slightly softer texture but comparable earthiness. Takes about the same cooking time; works well in soups and risotto-style dishes. The conversion is 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).

Common questions

Can I substitute Brown Rice for Pearl Barley?

Yes — Slightly softer texture but comparable earthiness. Takes about the same cooking time; works well in soups and risotto-style dishes. Ratio: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).

What's the conversion ratio for Pearl Barley to Brown Rice?

1:1 substitution (use the same amount). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.

Are Pearl Barley and Brown Rice interchangeable?

They are similar in most uses, but Slightly softer texture but comparable earthiness..

Is Brown Rice a better substitute than other options for Pearl Barley?

Brown Rice is one of the options SubSwap lists for Pearl Barley. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Pearl Barley substitutes.

Looking for more Pearl Barley substitutes beyond Brown Rice?

See all Pearl Barley swaps →