Have you ever found yourself craving that crispy texture on top of your baked mac and cheese, or the perfect crust on a piece of fried chicken? Bread crumbs plain may just be the solution you're looking for! At just 110 calories per 1/4 cup (28 g), they're an easy way to add crunch to any dish.
But bread crumbs plain aren't just about adding texture. They also provide some essential nutrients, with each serving containing 4 grams of protein, 19 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of fat.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about bread crumbs plain, from their ingredients and nutritional information to their culinary uses and popular brands. Whether you're a professional chef or just looking to add some crunch to your home-cooked meals, we've got you covered.
Introduction to Bread Crumbs Plain
Bread crumbs plain are exactly what they sound like: dry, ground-up pieces of bread with no added flavorings or seasonings. They're often made using day-old bread that's been left out to dry, which is then ground up into fine crumbs. But why use bread crumbs in the first place? There are a few reasons. Firstly, they add texture and crunch to dishes that would otherwise be soft or mushy. They can also act as a binder, helping ingredients stick together (think meatballs or veggie burgers). Additionally, they can help absorb moisture, preventing dishes from becoming too soggy.
As mentioned earlier, 1/4 cup (28 g) of bread crumbs plain contains 110 calories, 4 grams of protein, 19 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of fat. They're also a good source of fiber, with each serving providing 1 gram. While they're not the most nutrient-dense food out there, they can be a good option for adding some extra nutrients to your diet. Plus, since they're so low in calories, they're a great way to add some crunch to your meals without going overboard on calories.
Ingredients of Bread Crumbs Plain
The ingredients of bread crumbs plain are pretty simple: bread! You can use any type of bread you like, but white bread or sourdough are common choices. First, the bread is dried out, either by leaving it out for a day or two or by toasting it in the oven. Then, it's ground up into fine crumbs. Commercially-produced bread crumbs may also contain preservatives or additives to extend their shelf life or enhance their flavor. If you're looking to avoid these types of ingredients, making your own bread crumbs at home is a great option.
Health Benefits of Bread Crumbs Plain
While bread crumbs plain aren't a superfood by any means, they do offer some health benefits. For example, since they're made from bread, they can be a good source of fiber (especially if you use whole grain bread). They're also a low-calorie way to add crunch to your meals. However, it's worth noting that store-bought bread crumbs may contain preservatives or other additives that aren't particularly healthy. If you're looking to maximize the health benefits of bread crumbs, making your own at home using whole grain bread and no added preservatives is the way to go.
Culinary Uses of Bread Crumbs Plain
Bread crumbs plain are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. They're commonly used as a coating for fried or baked foods, such as chicken, fish, or vegetables. They can also be mixed into meatballs or meatloaf to help the mixture stick together, or added to mac and cheese or casseroles to give them a crispy topping. Another great use for bread crumbs plain is as a binding agent in veggie burgers or falafel. The crumbs help hold the ingredients together so that they don't fall apart during cooking. And if you're looking to add some crunch to your salads, sprinkling some bread crumbs on top can be a great way to do so.
Tips for Using Bread Crumbs Plain in Dishes
If you're new to using bread crumbs plain, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure your bread crumbs are finely ground - this will help them adhere to your dish better. If they're too coarse, they may fall off during cooking. Another tip is to season your bread crumbs! While plain bread crumbs are great in some dishes, adding some seasoning (such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika) can really take things up a notch. And if you're using bread crumbs as a coating for fried or baked foods, you can dip your ingredients in beaten eggs before coating them with bread crumbs - this will help the crumbs stick better.
How to Make Bread Crumbs Plain at Home
Making your own bread crumbs plain at home is simple and easy! All you need is some bread (white or whole grain), an oven, and a food processor or blender. Here's how to do it: 1. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. 2. Cut your bread into small cubes and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is dry and crispy.
Shelf Life and Storage of Bread Crumbs Plain
Like any other food, bread crumbs plain have a shelf life. Store-bought bread crumbs generally have a long shelf life (up to a year), thanks to preservatives and other additives. However, if you're making your own bread crumbs at home or using freshly-made ones, they won't last quite as long. To extend the shelf life of your bread crumbs, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place (such as a pantry or cupboard). They should last for several months this way. If you want to keep them even longer, you can try freezing them - just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag.
Popular Brands of Bread Crumbs Plain
There are a lot of brands out there that sell bread crumbs plain, both in stores and online. Some popular options include: - Progresso Plain Bread Crumbs - Ian's Natural Foods Plain Panko Bread Crumbs
Recipes Using Bread Crumbs Plain
Looking for some inspiration for how to use bread crumbs plain in your cooking? Here are a few recipes to get you started: - Crispy Baked Chicken: Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg, then coat in bread crumbs. Bake in the oven at 375 degrees F for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. - Spaghetti and Meatballs: Mix ground beef with bread crumbs, egg, onion, garlic, and seasonings. Form into balls and bake in the oven at 375 degrees F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Serve over spaghetti with marinara sauce.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Bread Crumbs
1. What exactly are bread crumbs?
Bread crumbs are small, dried pieces of bread that have been ground or processed into finer particles. They can be made from any type of bread, including white, whole wheat, or gluten-free.
2. How are bread crumbs used in cooking?
Bread crumbs are a versatile kitchen ingredient and can be used in a variety of ways. They are commonly used as a coating for fried or baked foods, as a binder for meatballs or burgers, or as a topping for casseroles and gratins.
3. Are bread crumbs healthy?
Bread crumbs are high in calories, with one-fourth of a cup containing around 110 calories. They are also high in carbohydrates and low in fiber. While they are not considered to be particularly nutritious, they can be a useful ingredient in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. Can bread crumbs be substituted with other ingredients?
Yes, there are many substitutes for bread crumbs, including crushed crackers, panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs), ground nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese. These substitutes can add different flavors and textures to dishes.
5. How should bread crumbs be stored?
Bread crumbs should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can also be stored in the freezer for longer shelf life. Once opened, bread crumbs can last for several months if properly stored.