Orzo

What Is Orzo?

Orzo is a small, oval pasta shape resembling a grain of rice or a large grain of barley. Although its name means “barley” in Italian, it is not a grain; it is pasta made from wheat semolina. In Greek cuisine it is called “kritharaki,” and in Turkish it is sometimes called “arpa şehriye,” literally “barley-shaped pasta.”

Its small, uniform pieces make it useful in soups and in dishes cooked like rice (pilaf-style dishes). When cooked, it becomes tender with a slightly starchy texture; it is also often used in salads.

Orzo Nutrition Facts

As a wheat pasta, orzo is primarily a source of carbohydrates and also contains some protein; 100 g of dry product contains approximately 360 kcal (the value per serving is lower after cooking). Because it is made from wheat, it contains gluten. Values are approximate.

How Should Orzo Be Eaten?

As a source of carbohydrates, orzo is eaten as part of soup, a rice-like dish, or a salad; balancing it with vegetables and protein sources is recommended. Because it contains gluten, it is not suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

This is general information. Orzo is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Orzo

Good orzo is dry, has uniform, whole pieces, is light yellow, and is within its freshness date. Avoid broken or dusty, damp, or insect-infested products; whole-wheat varieties are also available.

• Pieces should be uniform and whole.
• It should be dry and clean.
• It should not be infested with insects.

How to Store Orzo

Store orzo in a sealed container in a cool, dry, dark place for a long time; moisture may cause mold, while uncovered or warm storage may lead to insect infestation. Consume cooked orzo soon after storing it in the refrigerator.

How to Use Orzo in the Kitchen

Orzo is used most often in soup (especially egg-lemon or vegetable soup), rice pilaf-style dishes cooked in butter, baked pasta, and hot or cold salads. Its small pieces cook quickly; when toasted in butter for pilaf, they develop a nutty flavor.

Is Orzo Rice?

No. Orzo is a pasta that resembles rice; it is not a grain (rice). It is made from wheat semolina and, unlike rice, contains gluten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are orzo and arpa şehriye (barley-shaped pasta) the same?

They are largely the same; in Turkish, orzo is sometimes called “barley-shaped pasta” (although that pasta may be a little smaller). Both are wheat pasta and are used in similar ways.

How is orzo cooked?

It can be boiled in plenty of water, or toasted in butter and cooked with a measured amount of water or broth, like rice pilaf. Because it is small, it cooks quickly.

Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten. Gluten-free orzo-style products made from corn and rice are also available for people following a gluten-free diet.