Panko bread crumbs are a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs for their crispy, light texture and delicious flavor. But what if you can’t find them at your local grocery store or prefer not to pay the high price? Don’t worry, making panko bread crumbs at home is easy and much more affordable. All you need is some stale bread and a food processor, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have fresh panko bread crumbs that will take your dishes to the next level.

What are Panko Bread Crumbs?

Panko bread crumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are made from steamed, crustless loaves. These loaves are processed into flakes and then dried, resulting in large, flaky bread crumbs. Unlike traditional bread crumbs, panko doesn’t pack together when coating food, which helps to keep the food crispier for longer.

The Nutritional Value of Panko Bread Crumbs

Panko bread crumbs provide 357 kcal of energy per serving. They also contain protein, total lipid, carbohydrate, fiber, sugar, calcium, iron, potassium, and sodium. Panko bread crumbs do not contain any Vitamin D International Units, saturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids, or cholesterol.

Where to Buy Panko Bread Crumbs?

While panko bread crumbs can be found in most supermarkets, they can be quite expensive compared to regular bread crumbs. You can usually find them in the bakery section or the Asian food aisle of your grocery store. However, if you want to save some money, making your own panko bread crumbs at home is a great alternative.

What is Panko?

Panko is a type of Japanese breadcrumb made from steamed loaves of crustless bread. The bread is processed into flakes, dried, and turned into large, flaky crumbs. The unique texture of panko bread crumbs helps to keep dishes crispier for longer periods of time.

How to Use Panko Bread Crumbs in Your Cooking?

Panko bread crumbs can be used to add crunch and flavor to cooked vegetables, as a binding agent for meatballs, meatloaf, and veggie burgers, and as a topping for pasta dishes. The possibilities are endless. Get creative and experiment with incorporating panko bread crumbs into your favorite recipes for that added crunch and flavor.

The Benefits of Using Panko Bread Crumbs in Your Cooking

Panko bread crumbs have a light, airy, and delicate texture that crisps up beautifully when cooked. They absorb less oil than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in fried food that is more crisp and crunchy. Panko bread crumbs also have a neutral flavor, allowing the other ingredients in your dish to shine.

How to Make Panko Bread Crumbs

  1. Push stale white bread through the shredding disk of a food processor to make coarse crumbs.
  2. Spread the crumbs on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F degrees for 6-8 minutes.
  3. Shake the sheet twice during baking, but be careful not to let the crumbs brown.
  4. Immediately remove the bread crumbs from the oven and allow them to cool.
  5. Enjoy the light and crispy texture and the delicious homemade taste.
  6. Store the panko bread crumbs in a resealable plastic bag in the freezer for up to several months.

A Few Tips for Making the Most of Panko Bread Crumbs

  • Use stale or toasted bread for the best texture.
  • Pulse the bread in a food processor for a more even texture.
  • Toast the bread crumbs before using them for added flavor and crispiness.
  • Store homemade panko bread crumbs in an airtight container for up to a month.

How to Store Panko Bread Crumbs to Keep Them Fresh?

To keep your panko bread crumbs fresh, store them in a cool, dry place away from moisture or pests. If you buy them from the store, keep them in their original packaging in a pantry or cupboard. Once opened, transfer them to an airtight container or sealable plastic bag to maintain their freshness for up to 6 months.

Variations of Panko Bread Crumbs

Panko bread crumbs come in two varieties: white and tan. White panko is made from crustless white bread, while tan panko is made from the entire loaf. Both varieties have a light, airy, and delicate texture that helps them crisp up when cooked.

Conclusion: How to Make Panko Bread Crumbs?

Making panko bread crumbs at home is a simple and cost-effective way to elevate your dishes. They have a lighter and crispier texture compared to regular bread crumbs, and they can be used in a wide range of recipes. Whether you’re frying, baking, or adding a crunchy topping, panko bread crumbs are a versatile and delicious addition to your cooking.

FAQ: Panko Bread Crumbs

How are panko bread crumbs made?

Panko bread crumbs are made by processing steamed, crustless loaves of bread into flakes and then drying them.

Can I use any kind of bread to make panko bread crumbs?

Panko bread crumbs can be made from any white bread, but using stale or toasted bread will give you the best texture.

Can I use panko bread crumbs as a substitute for regular bread crumbs?

Yes, you can use panko bread crumbs as a substitute for regular bread crumbs in a 1:1 ratio.

Can homemade panko bread crumbs be stored for later use?

Yes, you can store homemade panko bread crumbs in the freezer in a freezer-safe bag or container for several months without losing their texture or flavor.

Do I have to toast the panko bread crumbs before using them in a dish?

Toasting panko bread crumbs before using them in a dish is a great way to enhance their flavor and crispiness.

How do I get panko bread crumbs crispy?

To get crispy panko bread crumbs, bake them in the oven at 350°F until golden brown.

Can I use panko bread crumbs for breading chicken or fish?

Yes, panko bread crumbs are perfect for breading chicken, fish, and other baked dishes, as they create a light and crispy coating.

What is the difference between panko and regular bread crumbs?

Panko bread crumbs have a dryer and flakier consistency than regular bread crumbs, resulting in a lighter and crunchier texture when cooked.

Which is healthier, panko or breadcrumbs?

Panko bread crumbs are generally healthier than regular breadcrumbs, as they contain less fat, salt, and calories.

Can I make my own panko bread crumbs?

Yes, you can make your own panko bread crumbs by grating stale bread in a food processor and toasting them in the oven.

Albion Morrison

Albion Morrison Founder : Earl’s Grocery is a sandwich restaurant that serves up Earl’s Real food. The atmosphere is comfortable and contemporary, making it the perfect place to enjoy a great meal.
Address: EARL’S GROCERY, 1609 ELIZABETH AVE, CHARLOTTE, NC 28204. Tel: (704) 333-2757
Email: INFO@EARLSGROCERY.COM