Grocery
Panko Bread Crumbs
What it is
Panko bread crumbs are a type of Japanese bread crumb that is light and airy. They are made from white bread that has been baked without crusts and then ground into coarse flakes. This unique texture gives them a crispier and lighter coating than traditional bread crumbs, making them a popular choice for many dishes. They absorb less oil than regular bread crumbs, resulting in a less greasy final product.
How people cook with it
These bread crumbs are excellent for creating a crunchy exterior on a variety of foods.
- Coating for fried chicken
- Topping for baked casseroles
- Binder for meatballs
- Crusting for seafood
Panko bread crumbs are typically used as a coating for fried or baked items. They can be pressed onto the surface of meats, fish, or vegetables before cooking. For frying, they provide an exceptionally crisp shell that holds up well. When baking, they create a delightful crunchy topping for dishes like macaroni and cheese or gratins. They can also be mixed into burger patties or meatloaf to add texture and help bind the ingredients together. Their light texture means they don't become heavy or dense when cooked.
How it differs from similar foods
Panko bread crumbs are distinct from regular bread crumbs due to their larger, flakier texture. This difference in size and shape allows them to toast up more quickly and become significantly crispier. Regular bread crumbs are often finer and can absorb more moisture and oil, leading to a denser, sometimes softer coating.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use panko bread crumbs to achieve a desirable crunch.
How to keep the rest
To maintain their crispness, store any unused panko bread crumbs in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This prevents them from absorbing moisture from the air, which would make them soft and less effective for coating.