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Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs, those humble little crumbs often found lurking in the back of our pantries, are an incredibly versatile ingredient with a rich culinary history. From crispy coatings to binding agents, breadcrumbs add texture, flavor, and structure to countless dishes around the world.

Tom the Chef Tom the Chef Founder
Published:
July 11, 2024

Introduction

Made from dried and ground bread, breadcrumbs come in various forms, each offering unique properties and culinary applications. Whether you’re using them to coat chicken cutlets, thicken a sauce, or top a casserole, breadcrumbs are an essential tool in any cook’s arsenal.

The Most Popular Breadcrumb Kinds

Breadcrumbs (Regular)

  • Made from dried white bread, ground into fine crumbs.
  • Versatile for coating, binding, and topping.
  • Classic choice for frying and baking.
  • Can be found plain or seasoned.
  • Read more here.

Fine Breadcrumbs

  • Finely ground texture, almost like powder.
  • Ideal for delicate coatings and thickening sauces.
  • Often used in meatballs and meatloaf for a smoother texture.
  • Can be made at home from dried bread.
  • Read more here.

Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs

  • Made from whole wheat bread, offering a nuttier flavor and denser texture.
  • Healthier option with more fiber than white breadcrumbs.
  • Great for adding depth to vegetarian dishes.
  • Can be used as a substitute for dried breadcrumbs in most recipes.
  • Read more here.

Panko Breadcrumbs

  • Japanese-style breadcrumbs made from crustless white bread.
  • Larger, flakier flakes create an extra crispy coating.
  • Ideal for frying without absorbing excess oil.
  • Popular in Asian cuisine and becoming more common in Western cooking.
  • Read more here.

Italian Breadcrumbs

  • Made from crusty Italian bread, seasoned with herbs and spices.
  • Adds a flavorful crust to baked dishes and vegetables.
  • Commonly used in Italian-American cooking.
  • Can be found pre-seasoned or made at home with fresh bread.
  • Read more here.

Don’t Waste Old Bread! Make Your Own Breadcrumbs!

  1. Make sure your bread has no signs of mold.
  2. Ensure your bread is dried (let it dry on the countertop for a few days).
  3. Once dried, process it in a kitchen food processor or grate it on a box grater to make breadcrumbs.
  4. Store them in a sealed freezer bag or food container in a cool, dark place.

Culinary Uses

  1. Coating: They are most commonly used as a coating for fried or baked foods. They create a crispy, golden-brown crust that adds texture and prevents moisture loss, resulting in juicy and flavorful dishes.
  2. Binding: Breadcrumbs act as a binder in meatballs, meatloaf, and veggie burgers, helping to hold the ingredients together and preventing them from falling apart during cooking.
  3. Thickening: Breadcrumbs can be added to soups, stews, and sauces to thicken them and add body. They absorb liquid and create a smoother, more velvety texture.
  4. Topping: Breadcrumbs are often used as a topping for casseroles, gratins, and pasta dishes. When baked, they become golden brown and crispy, adding a delightful textural contrast.

Tips

  • Freshness: Use fresh breadcrumbs whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. If using dried breadcrumbs, make sure they are not stale or rancid.
  • Seasoning: Season breadcrumbs with herbs, spices, or cheese to add flavor and complexity to your dishes.
  • Coating Technique: For a perfect breadcrumb coating, follow the standard breading procedure: dredge in flour, dip in egg wash, and then coat in breadcrumbs.
  • Storage: Store breadcrumbs in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness.

Brief History

The use of breadcrumbs dates back to ancient times when cooks discovered that stale bread could be ground into crumbs and used to extend the life of food. Breadcrumbs were also used to thicken soups and stews, as well as to bind ingredients together in various dishes. Over time, breadcrumbs became a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, used in countless recipes both sweet and savory.

Nutritional Information on Breadcrumbs

  • Breadcrumbs are primarily a source of carbohydrates, but they also contain small amounts of protein, fiber, and minerals.
  • The nutritional value of breadcrumbs can vary depending on the type of bread used.

Breadcrumbs may seem like a simple ingredient, but their versatility and culinary potential are truly remarkable.

About the Author:
Tom the ChefFounder
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  • Location: Iowa, USA
  • Member since: 2023-02-02
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