This article provides an overview of breadcrumbs, what it tastes like, their availability, alternative names, and of course what other ingredients make breadcrumbs substitutes.
What are Breadcrumbs?
Breadcrumbs are exactly what they sound like, a food ingredient made from dry of fresh crumbs of bread! The dry version is what you will buy in the supermarket and is used either as a topping on foods, as a coating applied to foods, prior to cooking, or as a binding agent.
Fresh breadcrumbs, you can easily make yourself with a blender and are also used as a topping for food, often to give the dish a crunchy texture. They are a wonderful way to use up old bread which you would typically have to throw away.
What do Breadcrumbs taste like?
Breadcrumbs have a light and airy texture that turn crispy and crunchy when cooked with an oil – usually olive oil. On their own, breadcrumbs have little flavor.
Are Breadcrumbs readily available in Supermarkets?
Breadcrumbs are pantry staples and should be found easily in supermarkets and even some local convenience stores. They can be bought in small tubs or in bulk bags, often found in the baked goods aisle.
What are some alternative names for Breadcrumbs?
Breadcrumbs is an umbrella term and some recipes may be more specific. Italian breadcrumbs are often used as an alternative name and often ‘panko’ is used interchangeably with breadcrumbs, this is a type of breadcrumb made with crustless white bread and has a much flakier consistency than regular breadcrumbs and is popular in Japanese cooking.
What is a good substitute for Breadcrumbs in recipes?
Luckily, there are a number of great substitutes for breadcrumbs. These include:
- The best substitute for breadcrumbs would rolled oats
- You can also use:
- Crushed Corn Flakes
- Crushed Potato Chips – ideally unsalted
- Croutons
- Crushed Almonds
- Saltine Crackers