The Top 10 Bulgur Substitutes You Probably Already Have

Bulgur wheat is a whole grain known for its slightly nutty flavour and chewy texture. It’s a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, often used in dishes like tabbouleh and pilafs. However, if you’re looking for a bulgur wheat substitute, whether for gluten-free options or to experiment with different grains, there are plenty of alternatives.

What is Bulgur

Bulgur is a whole grain made from cracked wheat, primarily durum wheat, that has been partially cooked or parboiled, dried, and then broken into various sizes. It has a slightly nutty flavour and a chewy texture. Bulgur is a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, known for its quick cooking time and nutritional benefits, including being a good source of fibre, protein, and vitamins. It’s commonly used in dishes like tabbouleh, pilafs, salads, and soups.

Is Bulgur Gluten Free

No, bulgur is not gluten-free. Bulgur is made from wheat, specifically durum wheat, which naturally contains gluten. Therefore, it’s not suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. For gluten-free alternatives, grains like quinoa, brown rice, or buckwheat can be used as substitutes.

Comprehensive List of Top 10 Bulgur Wheat Substitutes

Here are the top 10 substitutes for bulgur wheat:

1. Quinoa

A popular ancient grain and a great gluten-free substitute, quinoa offers a similar nutty flavor and chewy texture. It’s rich in essential amino acids and cooks in about 15-20 minutes.

2. Brown Rice

A whole grain with a chewy texture, brown rice can be a perfect substitute for bulgur in most recipes. It has a longer cooking time but provides a similar consistency and is gluten-free.

3. Couscous

Whole wheat couscous can mimic the texture and size of bulgur. Although not gluten-free, it’s a suitable wheat substitute in salads and side dishes.

4. Cracked Wheat

Cracked wheat is very similar to bulgur but requires a longer cooking time. It’s not gluten-free but offers a similar nutty flavour and texture.

5. Wheat Berries

Whole wheat kernels, or wheat berries, can replace bulgur for a chewier texture. They have a slightly nutty flavour but require a longer cooking time.

6. Shelled Hemp Seeds

For a gluten-free diet, shelled hemp seeds are an excellent bulgur substitute. They offer a unique nutty flavour and are packed with essential amino acids.

7. Freekeh

An ancient grain with a smoky, nutty flavour, freekeh is a great bulgur wheat substitute in salads and pilafs. Note that it contains gluten.

8. Farro

Farro, an ancient wheat variety, provides a chewy texture and a nutty flavour, making it a good substitute for bulgur wheat in various dishes. It’s not gluten-free.

9. Millet

This gluten-free grain offers a mild, slightly nutty flavour and can be used as a substitute for bulgur in many recipes, though it has a softer texture.

10. Barley

Barley, with its chewy texture and rich, nutty flavour, is another excellent whole grain substitute for bulgur. However, it is not suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Budget Friendly Bulgur Wheat Substitute

The best budget-friendly substitute for bulgur wheat is brown rice. Brown rice is widely available, typically low-cost, and offers a similar chewy texture and nutty flavour. It’s also a whole grain, making it a nutritious alternative that aligns well with the health benefits of bulgur. Brown rice is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes where bulgur is typically used, such as salads, pilafs, and stuffing, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable and accessible substitute.

Best Healthy Substitute for Bulgur Wheat

The best healthy substitute for bulgur wheat is quinoa. Quinoa is a highly nutritious seed that’s naturally gluten-free and rich in protein, fibre, and essential amino acids. It has a similar texture to bulgur and a slightly nutty flavour, making it an excellent alternative in most recipes. Additionally, quinoa contains various vitamins and minerals, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a healthy, nutrient-dense substitute. Its versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of dishes, from salads and pilafs to soups and stuffings.

Best High Fibre Substitute for Bulgur Wheat

The best high-fiber substitute for bulgur wheat is pearled barley. Pearled barley is a whole grain with a chewy texture and nutty flavour similar to bulgur. It’s particularly high in dietary fibre, which is beneficial for digestive health. While it’s not gluten-free, barley is an excellent choice for those looking to increase their fibre intake. It can be used in a variety of dishes where bulgur is typically found, such as salads, soups, and stews, offering a satisfying and fibre-rich alternative.

Best Gluten Free Alternative to Bulgur Wheat

The best gluten-free alternative to bulgur wheat is quinoa. Quinoa is a versatile, naturally gluten-free seed that cooks quickly and has a texture and flavour profile similar to bulgur. It’s also rich in protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for those on a gluten-free diet. Quinoa can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, pilafs, and stuffings, making it an excellent and healthy substitute for bulgur in almost any recipe.

Best Lower Calorie Substitute for Bulgur Wheat

The best lower-calorie substitute for bulgur wheat is cauliflower rice. Cauliflower rice is made by grating or processing cauliflower florets into small, rice-sized pieces. It is significantly lower in calories compared to bulgur, while still providing a similar texture and bulk to dishes. Additionally, cauliflower rice is gluten-free, rich in vitamins, and can easily absorb flavours from other ingredients in a recipe. It’s a versatile substitute that works well in salads, pilafs, and as a side dish, making it ideal for those looking to reduce calorie intake while still enjoying meals typically made with bulgur.

Best High Protein Substitute for Bulgur

The best high-protein substitute for bulgur is quinoa. Quinoa is not only a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, but it also offers a higher protein content compared to many grains. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake. In addition to its protein content, quinoa is gluten-free, rich in fibre, and has a similar texture to bulgur, making it suitable for a variety of dishes like salads, pilafs, and stuffings. Its versatility and nutritional profile make quinoa a superb high-protein alternative to bulgur.

Best All Around Bulgur Wheat Substitute

The best all-around substitute for bulgur wheat is quinoa. Quinoa stands out due to its versatility, nutritional value, and the fact that it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. It has a similar texture to bulgur, with a slightly nutty flavour, and can be used in a variety of recipes including salads, pilafs, soups, and stuffings. Quinoa is also a complete protein, providing all essential amino acids, and is rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Its quick cooking time and ability to absorb flavours well make it an excellent all-around alternative to bulgur in many different types of dishes.

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What to Keep In Mind When Substituting Bulgur Wheat

When substituting bulgur wheat, consider the cooking time and the desired texture in your recipe. Some substitutes, like brown rice and wheat berries, take longer to cook compared to bulgur. Others, like quinoa and hemp seeds, offer a gluten-free alternative while maintaining a similar flavour profile. Each substitute can bring a unique dimension to your dishes, allowing you to enjoy your favourite recipes with a new twist.