Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of bulgur?

Cracked wheat or freekeh, Couscous (fine) and Quinoa (cooked, cooled) are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Cracked wheat or freekeh. Use the same amount. Same family; freekeh is smokier and takes longer.

Adjust: Add 10 minutes for freekeh.

Cracked wheat or freekeh
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Same family; freekeh is smokier and takes longer.

Flavor
Grassy, smoky.

Texture
Chewy.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Add 10 minutes for freekeh.

Best for
Pilaf, Soups

vegan
Couscous (fine)
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Fastest swap for fine bulgur in kısır or salad; just soak.

Flavor
Neutral, wheaty.

Texture
Softer, finer.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Soak in hot water 5 minutes, then fluff.

Best for
Kısır, Tabbouleh-style salads
Quinoa (cooked, cooled)
Changes flavor or texture

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Gluten-free and protein-rich; fluffier, less chew.

Flavor
Nutty.

Texture
Fluffy.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Rinse before cooking to remove bitterness.

Best for
Salads, Pilaf

vegan · gluten free
Brown rice
Changes flavor or texture

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Cooks much longer than bulgur; use cooked rice.

Flavor
Mild.

Texture
Chewier.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Adjust liquid to the rice package.

Best for
Pilaf, Stuffing

vegan · gluten free

Common questions

What is the best substitute for bulgur?

Cracked wheat or freekeh is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Same family; freekeh is smokier and takes longer.

What is a vegan substitute for bulgur?

Good vegan options are Cracked wheat or freekeh, Quinoa (cooked, cooled) and Brown rice.

What is a gluten-free substitute for bulgur?

Good gluten-free options are Quinoa (cooked, cooled) and Brown rice.

How much should I use instead of bulgur?

It depends on the swap. Cracked wheat or freekeh: Use the same amount. Couscous (fine): Use the same amount. Quinoa (cooked, cooled): Use the same amount.