Italian Bread Crumbs

I like this recipe for bread crumbs, it is far better than any of those boxed things. Since discovering panko bread crumbs, I use them often. I guess my question is, when wouldn't panko bread crumbs be appropriate. I find my self wanting to use them for everything, but I know there have to be some dishes that I shouldn't use them.

You can use panko bread crumbs, which are just Japanese bread crumbs, pretty much anywhere you would use regular bread crumbs. http://rouxbe.com/drilldowns/95 The only thing to keep in mind, is the texture of the end result. If you use panko bread crumbs you will have a crispier finish (which is usually a good thing). So feel free to "panko away" and let me know if you discover somewhere that they did not work, because I am at a loss, as to where they wouldn't work. Again it all depends on what you want, I like regular bread crumbs for things like Chicken Parmigiana because I like the crust to have a softer texture...but that might just be me.

Made these today. I tasted it, really great! I can't wait to make the Chicken Parmigiana tomorrow.

Panko works fine, I blend all the ingredients in a Cuisinart to end up with a finer texture. However! When I have the time and inclination, I use a firm textured, high quality white bread, it really does make a difference. And as Dawn said, you end up with a (preferable) softer texture.

Panko bread crumbs are generally more airy and lighter, so if you're actually LOOKING for a heavier finish, you might want to steer away from them.

I love this breading recipe.

Onion powder????? Garlic powder???? Why paying for a cooking school subscription if we are using fake ingredients!!!

Onion powder and garlic powder are actually not fake ingredients, they are simply dried versions of the fresh stuff. Both garlic and onion powder are dried and then ground. Some brands may come with additives, but many do not. In most cases, I agree that fresh is better than dried, but there are some times when dried is quite fine; like when making dry rubs or seasoning mixes.

I note that the recipe calls for "stale white bread" ... I have slices in my fridge from 2 weeks ago when I intended to make this recipe! It is now REALLY stale - is it OK to use? Conversley, would it be ok to put fresh bread slices in the oven to firm them up a bit before proceeding with the food processor? Thanks!

I think as long as it's not moldy and it smells okay, then it's okay to use. You second option would also work. In fact, I have done had to do this a few times as I rarely have "stale white bread" in my house :-) Hope this helps. Cheers!

So much better than store bought. Spices did not over take the the bread crumbs.

Just made my second batch of these. So incredibly tasty. I use them for all kinds of things. I did the Chicken Parmigiana a while back, which was great. I've also used them for traditional Norwegian food like fish sticks and fish gratins. Like Dawn, I rarely have "stale white bread" on hand, so I just got two loafs and made a 700g batch of these wonderful crumbs :)

Could I replace some of the bread with saltine crackers and how much in grams?thank you

HI Riaz, Yes, crackers, chips, any flatbread or baked item. Make sure that it is dry before trying to pulse it in a food processor. Also keep in min that bread is a much more neutral flavor, so you may have to reduce and adjust the seasoning.