Acini de Pepe (literally “pepper grains”) is a small, round type of pasta. They are commonly used in soups and stews, but can also be served as a side dish. While acini de Pepe can be made at home, they are also available pre-packaged at most grocery stores.
If you can’t find acini de Pepe or simply don’t want to use them, there are several substitutes for acini de Pepe that can be used in their place. Small pasta shapes like ditalini or shells work well as a replacement, as do rice or quinoa.
Outline
10 Best Acini di Pepe Substitutes
1. Orzo
Orzo is a type of pasta that is shaped like rice. It is traditionally made from Durum wheat flour, but it can also be made from other types of wheat or even rice. Orzo has a mild flavor and a slightly chewy texture.
Orzo can be used as a substitute for acini de Pepe in many recipes. It is similar in size and shape to the acini de Pepe and will easily absorb the flavors of the dish and can be used in soups, salads, and casseroles.
2. Tubettini
If you’re looking for pasta that’s similar in size and shape to acini de Pepe, tubettini is a good option. This type of pasta is also known as “little tubes,” and it’s made from durum wheat semolina flour. Tubettini has a firm texture and holds up well in soups and salads.
Like acini de Pepe, it’s also commonly used in pasta salads.
3. Angel Hair Pasta
Also known as Capellini, Angel hair pasta is a type of thin, delicately textured Italian pasta that is made from semolina flour. It is often used in soups and salads, as well as pasta dishes, and makes a good substitute for acini de Pepe.
When cooked properly, angel hair pasta should be tender but not mushy.
4. Israeli Couscous
Israeli couscous is a type of pasta made from semolina flour. It is small and round, similar in size to pearls with a chewy texture and nutty flavor. Israeli couscous is a great substitute for acini de Pepe because it is similar in size and shape.
Taste-wise, Israeli couscous is a bit blander than acini de Pepe, but it will absorb the flavors of whatever dish it is cooked in.
5. Pastina
If you’re looking for a substitute for acini de Pepe, then Pastina is a great option. This type of pasta is very small and delicate, making it a perfect match for soups and other dishes that call for acini de Pepe. Pastina is also much cheaper than its more premium cousin, so you can save a few bucks by using it as a substitute.
Give it a try the next time you’re in the mood for a delicious bowl of soup!
6. Quinoa
If you are looking for a gluten-free substitute for acini de Pepe, quinoa is a great option. Quinoa has a similar texture to acini de Pepe, making it a perfect replacement in recipes. When cooked, quinoa expands and becomes slightly chewy, similar to acini de Pepe.
Additionally, quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
7. Ditalini
If you’re looking for pasta that’s similar in shape and size to acini de Pepe, ditalini is a good option. Ditalini is a type of tubular pasta that’s typically used in soups and salads. Like acini de Pepe, ditalini is small and round. It’s also slightly smaller in diameter than acini de Pepe.
When cooked, ditalini has a firm texture that holds up well in soups and salads. If you’re looking for pasta that will maintain its shape and not turn mushy when cooked, ditalini is a good option.
8. Stelline
The word “stelline” comes from the Latin word for “star.” Stelline is a small, star-shaped pasta made from semolina flour and can be used in the same way as acini de Pepe. Both the pasta have a similar texture and taste, so they can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
9. Anellini
Anellini can be used as a substitute for acini de Pepe in most recipes. Simply follow the recipe as written, but use an equal amount of anellini in place of the acini de Pepe. Anellini is a type of pasta that is similar in size and shape to acini de Pepe, so it will work well in most recipes.
10. Fregola
If you are looking for a pasta that is similar in appearance to acini de Pepe but has a slightly different flavor and texture, then you should definitely give fregola a try. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at how well it works as a substitute for acini de Pepe.
Given that acini de Pepe is difficult to find, we’ve listed all the possible substitutes for acini de Pepe that you can use in its place. If you know of any other substitutes, let us know in the comments below!
