Arborio rice substitutes
Arborio rice substitutes — 4 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Carnaroli rice
Same amount as the arborio rice
Similar rice with higher starch content and creamier texture.
The best substitutes for arborio rice are carnaroli rice, vialone nano, or short-grain white rice, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- risotto
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of arborio rice | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carnaroli ricerisotto | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Vialone nanorisotto | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Short-grain white ricerisotto | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Sushi ricerisotto | Same amountWorks | Works |
Carnaroli rice
similar taste and texture
Similar rice with higher starch content and creamier texture.
- Best for
- risotto, rice dishes, Italian cooking, creamy rice dishes
Considered the 'king of risotto rice', holds shape better.
Vialone nano
similar taste and texture
Smaller grain with similar starch content.
- Best for
- risotto, rice dishes, Italian cooking, soups
Smaller grain, absorbs liquid more quickly.
Short-grain white rice
similar taste and texture
Generic short-grain rice with similar texture.
- Best for
- risotto, rice dishes, general cooking, budget-friendly option
More widely available, may need more stirring.
Sushi rice
similar taste and texture
Short-grain rice with similar starch content.
- Best for
- risotto, rice dishes, Asian cooking, sticky rice dishes
Very sticky when cooked, good for creamy dishes.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use regular long-grain rice for risotto?
Long-grain rice won't create the same creamy texture as arborio. Short-grain rice is essential for proper risotto.
What's the difference between arborio and carnaroli?
Carnaroli has more starch and holds its shape better, making it less likely to become mushy during cooking.
Can I substitute arborio rice in paella?
Yes, arborio can work in paella, but bomba rice is the traditional choice for authentic Spanish paella.
Tips for substituting arborio rice
4 tips- Arborio rice is essential for authentic risotto
- Don't rinse arborio rice before cooking to preserve starch
- Stir constantly while cooking risotto for creamy texture
- Use warm stock when making risotto