If you're looking to add some extra flavor and texture to your meals, seasoned bread crumbs may be just what you need. A quarter cup of seasoned bread crumbs (28g) contains around 60 calories, making it a low-calorie option for enhancing your dishes.
These bread crumbs are typically made by mixing regular bread crumbs with various herbs and spices, such as garlic, basil, parsley, and oregano. Not only do they add flavor, but they can also help to keep meats and fish moist when cooking.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about seasoned bread crumbs, including how to use them, their nutritional information, and some delicious recipes you can try at home.
What are Seasoned Bread Crumbs?
Seasoned bread crumbs are a type of breadcrumb that has been mixed with various herbs and spices to add flavor to dishes. They are commonly used as a coating for meats, fish, and vegetables before cooking, and also work well as a topping for casseroles and baked dishes. You can find them at most grocery stores, or you can even make your own by mixing fresh or dried bread crumbs with herbs and spices of your choice. Homemade bread crumbs are a great way to use up leftover bread and can be stored in the freezer for later use.
A quarter cup of seasoned bread crumbs (28g) contains around 60 calories, 1g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. They are a low-calorie option for adding flavor and texture to your meals. However, they may contain added salt and sugar, so it's important to check the ingredients list if you are watching your sodium or sugar intake. Some varieties may also contain gluten, so they may not be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
How to Use Seasoned Bread Crumbs for Cooking
Seasoned bread crumbs are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. Here are some ideas: - Use them as a coating for meats, fish, or vegetables before frying or baking. - Combine them with grated Parmesan cheese and use as a topping for pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara or baked macaroni and cheese.
Different Recipes Using Seasoned Bread Crumbs
If you're looking for some inspiration on how to use seasoned bread crumbs in your cooking, here are some recipes to try out: - Breaded chicken tenders: Coat chicken strips in seasoned bread crumbs and bake in the oven for a healthier take on this classic dish. - Baked zucchini fries: Slice zucchini into thin strips, coat in seasoned bread crumbs, and bake for a crunchy and flavorful side dish.
Benefits of Using Seasoned Bread Crumbs
Seasoned bread crumbs add flavor and texture to dishes without adding a lot of calories or fat. They are also a great way to use up stale bread and can be easily made at home with your choice of herbs and spices. Additionally, using seasoned bread crumbs as a coating can help to keep meats and fish moist when cooking. They can also be used as a topping for casseroles and baked dishes to add an extra crunch.
Alternatives to Seasoned Bread Crumbs
If you don't have seasoned bread crumbs on hand, there are a few alternatives you can use instead: - Plain bread crumbs: While they won't add the same flavor, plain bread crumbs can work as a substitute in recipes. - Panko bread crumbs: Japanese-style bread crumbs that are light and crispy. They can be used as a substitute in recipes that call for seasoned bread crumbs.
Where to Buy Seasoned Bread Crumbs
You can find seasoned bread crumbs at most grocery stores in the baking or condiment aisle. Some popular brands include Progresso, Kraft, and Ian's. You can also find them online.
Storage and Shelf Life of Seasoned Bread Crumbs
To keep seasoned bread crumbs fresh, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They should last for around 6 months, but be sure to check the expiration date on the package. If you make homemade bread crumbs, they can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Allergies and Seasoned Bread Crumbs
Seasoned bread crumbs may contain gluten, so they may not be suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. They may also contain other allergens such as soy, dairy, or nuts, so be sure to check the ingredient list if you have any allergies.
Fun Facts About Seasoned Bread Crumbs
- Bread crumbs were first used as a coating for fried foods in Ancient Rome. - In Italy, bread crumbs are known as pangrattato, which means grated bread. - In Japanese cuisine, panko bread crumbs are often used as a coating for fried dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seasoned Bread Crumbs
What are seasoned bread crumbs?
Seasoned bread crumbs are a type of breadcrumb that have been mixed with various spices and seasonings to add flavor to dishes. They can be used as a coating for baked or fried foods, as a topping for casseroles or pasta dishes, or as a binding agent in meatballs or meatloaf.
How many calories are in 1/4 cup of seasoned bread crumbs?
There are 60 calories in 1/4 cup (28 g) of seasoned bread crumbs.
Are seasoned bread crumbs gluten-free?
It depends on the brand and the ingredients used. Some brands offer gluten-free options made with alternative flours like rice or corn, while others may contain wheat-based bread crumbs and are not gluten-free. It is important to read the label carefully and check for any allergen information.
Can seasoned bread crumbs be used as a substitute for plain bread crumbs?
Yes, seasoned bread crumbs can be used in place of plain bread crumbs in recipes to add flavor. However, keep in mind that the added seasonings may alter the taste of the dish, so it is important to adjust the recipe accordingly.
How should seasoned bread crumbs be stored?
To keep seasoned bread crumbs fresh, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for added shelf life.