How to Make Bread Crumbs

This is a great way to use up the heels on bread loaves or finish off a stale loaf.

Toasting the bread:

• Lay the slices of bread in a single layer on a cookie sheet and bake at 325 degrees for 10-15 minutes.
• Remove tray from oven with hot pads.
• Turn each slice over and return to oven for 5 more minutes until the bread is crisp but not too brown.
• Remove tray from oven and allow the bread to cool.

Preparing plain bread crumbs:

• Place cooled pieces of bread in a plastic bag. (This helps limit the mess.)
• Use a rolling pin to crush the toast into small pieces.
• The bread crumbs can be stored in the freezer in a ziploc bag to use as needed.
• Use plain bread crumbs in meatballs and meatloaf or this tasty Panzanella

Seasoning Your Homemade Bread Crumbs:

The great thing about making your own bread crumbs is you get to decide how much and what kind of seasoning you want to add. Store bought bread crumbs are full of salt, sugar and preservatives that can make your food taste funny.

Topping for Mac & Cheese

2 cups plain bread crumbs and 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Crumb Coating for Baked Chicken

Mix in a large bowl:

• 2 cups plain bread crumbs
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1/8 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1 tsp. oregano
• 2 Tbs. olive oil

            If you have fresh herbs try adding:

• 2 Tbs. finely chopped parsley leaves or celery leaves or basil or….

                        you get the idea.

Use seasonal herbs from the market or better yet plant a pot on your back porch filled with a few basics: parsley, cilantro, chives, oregano...even basil. (Basil is pretty sensitive to cold temps. Bring it inside if it gets too cold.)