Bulgur, that grain we all stumble upon in recipes, demanding a special trip to the store. Ever found yourself scratching your head in the middle of the aisle, pondering what on earth can take its place? We’ve been there, done that. Got the T-shirt, even.
Here’s a lightbulb moment – there are substitutes. And not just any, but five fantastic swaps to keep your meals interesting. We’ve wrestled with the same question you have. What can seamlessly slide into bulgur’s spot without causing a culinary hiccup?
It turns out, a lot can. In our kitchen misadventures, we’ve discovered these gems. They’ve saved our dishes from the brink of disaster. Now, we’re sharing our gold with you.
5 BEST Bulgur Substitutes in Recipes
If you’re new to bulgur and wondering what the fuss is all about, it’s a whole wheat grain that’s been cracked and partially pre-cooked.
It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a popular choice in dishes like tabbouleh and pilafs. However, if you can’t find or don’t have bulgur on hand, try these substitutes to keep your recipes delicious and exciting.
1 – Quinoa
Quinoa is our go-to guy. It’s versatile and packs all the good stuff. Protein, fiber, and vitamins? Check, check, and check. It’s easy to cook, blending seamlessly into any dish.
We once swapped it into a salad recipe. The result? A game changer. Our friends still ask for it at potlucks. Quinoa’s light, fluffy texture and slightly nutty taste make every bite interesting.
It cooks in about 15 minutes. Just rinse, boil in water, and simmer. Couldn’t be simpler. Plus, it’s gluten-free. Great news for our gluten-sensitive friends.
Looking for more inspiration? You might want to check out our list of quinoa substitutes.
2 – Couscous
Couscous, our next big thing, slides right into recipes where bulgur once shined. It’s small, granular, and cooks faster than you can say “dinner’s ready.” We’ve tossed it into salads and soups. Every time, it makes the dish pop.
Its key feature? Couscous absorbs flavors like a sponge. Perfect for our flavor-packed meals. We remember the first time we used it. We were skeptical. Yet, it turned the meal around, making us wonder how we’d gone so long without it.
Need more? Couscous is a staple for a reason. It’s light, it’s breezy, and it mixes into your recipes without a hitch. We’ve learned it’s best served fluffed. Just pour boiling water and cover. Wait a few, then fluff with a fork.
If you’re eyeing couscous as your next kitchen experiment, check our guide on couscous substitutes for more ideas.
3 – Farro
Next up, farro. This grain doesn’t joke around. It’s hearty and chewy, perfect for those who love a bite to their meals. We’ve used it in soups, and truth be told, it stole the show.
Its magic? Farro is a master at soaking up flavors. Everything tastes better with it. We tossed it into a veggie soup once. The comments we got? “Amazing.” Farro’s nutty flavor elevates every dish.
It’s a bit like rice. You boil, then simmer. Easy, right? Plus, it brings fiber and protein to the table. Good for the body and soul.
Some say it’s old-school. We say it’s timeless. Farro fits into modern kitchens like a dream. It’s our secret weapon for impressing guests.
If farro piqued your interest, you might love our guide on farro substitutes.
4 – Millet
Millet, a small but mighty grain, deserves a spot in your pantry. It’s gluten-free and full of nutrients. Easy to cook, millet fluffs up beautifully. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavor. We’ve thrown it into everything from breakfast porridge to dinner sides.
Millet keeps meals interesting. We found it superb in salads, soups, and stews. Its versatility amazed us. Cooking millet is a breeze. Just simmer in water until it’s tender. It’s a champion at soaking up flavors, making each dish richer.
Got curious about millet? For more grain genius, see our guide to millet substitutes.
5 – Rice (Brown, White, or Wild)
Rice, the versatile staple, finds its way into our kitchens for good reason. It’s easy to use and adapts well in recipes calling for bulgur. We’ve tried all types – brown, white, and wild. Each brings something unique to the table.
Brown rice gives dishes a hearty feel. It’s chewy and full of flavor. We once used it in a pilaf. The compliments flew. White rice is a quick fix. It cooks up soft and mild. Perfect for those busy nights.
Wild rice blew our minds. Its robust taste and texture jazzed up a simple salad. Cooking times vary. We always check the package. Rice is forgiving, a blank canvas for flavors.
In our experience, rice is more than just a side dish. It’s a meal maker.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.