When it comes to adding a crispy texture to your dishes, Panko breadcrumbs are the perfect ingredient. 1/4 cup (20 g) of Original Panko breadcrumbs have a calorie count of 71. These breadcrumbs are light and airy, making them the ideal choice for breading and frying.
Panko breadcrumbs are made from bread without crusts, which gives them a distinct texture compared to other types of breadcrumbs. The reason why these breadcrumbs are so popular among foodies is their ability to create a crispy and crunchy coating that stays crispy longer. Whether you are making meatballs, chicken nuggets, or coating a piece of fish for frying, using Panko breadcrumbs guarantees a crunchy and delicious result.
In this article, we will explore the nutritional value of Panko breadcrumbs, how many calories they contain, and the difference between Panko and regular breadcrumbs. We will also share some great recipes that use Panko breadcrumbs and where to buy them. Additionally, we will discuss proper storage tips to keep your Panko breadcrumbs fresh and ready to use whenever you need them.
Panko Breadcrumbs in a Nutshell
Panko breadcrumbs are a Japanese-style breadcrumb that is made from bread that is processed without crusts. The word Panko actually means 'bread flakes' in Japanese. These breadcrumbs have a unique texture that is light and airy, making them the perfect ingredient for adding a crispy texture to any dish. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs that are ground more finely, Panko breadcrumbs are made from larger pieces of bread that are flakier and provide a crispy and crunchy coating. Panko breadcrumbs are also known for their excellent ability to absorb less grease, meaning that they can make healthier fried foods.
Why Panko Breadcrumbs are Popular Among Foodies
Panko breadcrumbs have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among foodies. The reason for their popularity is their ability to create a crispy and crunchy coating that stays crispy longer. The texture and crunch that Panko breadcrumbs provide have elevated their versatility in many dishes. Using Panko breadcrumbs gives a lightness to the dish compared to regular breadcrumbs that can give a heavier texture. It’s a perfect ingredient as it works well with meat, poultry, and seafood recipes. Panko breadcrumbs are also considered more healthy than regular breadcrumbs because they absorb less oil, which means fewer calories in the food.
The Nutritional Value of Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs are low in calories and contain no fat or sugar. 1/4 cup (20 g) of Original Panko breadcrumbs contains only 71 calories, making them a great addition to any diet. They are also a good source of carbohydrate and protein. Panko breadcrumbs do not contain any fiber, vitamins, or minerals. Although eating them alone might not provide many nutrients, they can be used as a healthy ingredient to add flavor and texture to your meals.
How Many Calories are in 1/4 Cup of Panko Breadcrumbs?
One serving of Original Panko breadcrumbs or 1/4 cup (20 g) contains 71 calories. It also has 14 grams of carbohydrate, 2 grams of protein, and 0.5 grams of fat. Although Panko breadcrumbs are not very high in calories, be careful about how much you use in your recipes, as they can be coated in oil and raise the calorie count of the dish.
Panko Breadcrumbs vs. Regular Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs have some differences that make them unique ingredients for your recipes. Regular breadcrumbs are made from sliced bread without crusts, and the bread is then ground and dried to make the breadcrumbs. On the other hand, Panko breadcrumbs are made from bread processed without crusts, resulting in a flakier and lighter texture than regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are larger, lighter, and more airy with a delicate texture, giving a crunchier crust than regular breadcrumbs. Additionally, Panko breadcrumbs absorb less oil than regular breadcrumbs when frying, making them a healthier option.
Healthy Ways to Use Panko Breadcrumbs in Your Cooking
Panko breadcrumbs can be used in many ways to add a crispy texture to your meals. Here are some healthy ideas to use Panko breadcrumbs in your cooking:
- Use Panko breadcrumbs to coat fish fillets, chicken breasts or pork chops for a healthier version of the classics.
- Sprinkle Panko bread crumbs over roasted vegetables for a crispy texture.
- Add Panko breadcrumbs to quiches or frittatas for added texture.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs to coat tofu strips or vegetable sticks and bake them to make a healthy and crunchy snack.
Are Panko Breadcrumbs Keto-friendly?
Panko breadcrumbs are not considered keto-friendly as they contain carbohydrates. One serving of Panko breadcrumbs or 1/4 cup (20 g) contains 14 grams of carbohydrates, which is not suitable for individuals following a strict keto diet. However, if you are following a low-carb diet or a moderate keto diet, Panko breadcrumbs can be used in moderation as they can add texture and flavor to your meals.
Tasty Recipes to Try with Panko Breadcrumbs
There are many ways to use Panko breadcrumbs in your cooking. Here are some tasty recipes to try with Panko breadcrumbs:
- Crunchy Baked Chicken Parmesan: Coat chicken breasts with Panko breadcrumbs and bake them until they are crispy. Serve with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a classic Italian dish.
- Quinoa Veggie Burger: Mix cooked quinoa, grated zucchini, egg, and Panko breadcrumbs in a bowl. Shape the mixture into patties and coat them with Panko breadcrumbs. Pan-fry them until they are golden brown and serve on burger buns with your favorite toppings and condiments.
- Crispy Baked Potato Wedges: Cut potatoes into wedges and toss them in Panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Bake in the oven until golden brown and crispy.
- Healthy Vegan Meatballs: Mix cooked lentils with sautéed onions, garlic, flax meal, and Panko breadcrumbs in a food processor. Roll the mixture into balls, coat with Panko breadcrumbs, and bake in the oven for a healthy and flavorful meatless option.
Where to Buy Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs are widely available in grocery stores and online retailers. You can find them in the baking aisle or with other breadcrumbs. Some popular brands that sell Panko breadcrumbs are Kikkoman, Ian's, and Progresso. You can also find gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs if you have dietary restrictions. Some online retailers that sell Panko breadcrumbs are Amazon, Walmart, and Thrive Market.
Storage Tips for Panko Breadcrumbs
To keep your Panko breadcrumbs fresh and ready to use, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It is important to keep them away from moisture and heat to prevent clumping and spoilage. You can also store Panko breadcrumbs in the freezer to extend their shelf life. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and remove the air before sealing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. Before using the Panko breadcrumbs, let them come to room temperature to avoid adding too much moisture to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panko Breadcrumbs
1. What are Panko Breadcrumbs?
Panko Breadcrumbs are a type of Japanese breadcrumb that are made from bread that has been processed to create a crumb that is light and airy. The bread is processed into flakes rather than crumbs, giving them a different texture to regular breadcrumbs. They are often used in Japanese cuisine but can also be used as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs in other dishes.
2. How are Panko Breadcrumbs made?
Panko Breadcrumbs are made by first removing the crusts from white bread and then processing the bread into flakes. The flakes are then dried out and stored until ready to use. Because Panko Breadcrumbs are made without crusts, they have a lighter, flakier texture than traditional breadcrumbs.
3. What is the nutritional value of Panko Breadcrumbs?
One quarter cup (20g) of Panko Breadcrumbs contains approximately 71 calories. They also contain carbohydrates, protein, and a small amount of fat. When used in moderation, Panko Breadcrumbs can be part of a balanced diet.
4. How do you use Panko Breadcrumbs?
Panko Breadcrumbs can be used in a variety of ways, such as coating chicken or fish before frying, topping casseroles or baked dishes, or as a crunchy topping for salads. They can also be used as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs in recipes, but keep in mind that they have a different texture and may require slightly different cooking times.
5. Are Panko Breadcrumbs gluten-free?
Most Panko Breadcrumbs are not gluten-free, as they are made from wheat bread. However, there are some brands that make gluten-free Panko Breadcrumbs using alternative flours such as rice or corn. Be sure to check the label if you have a gluten intolerance or allergy.