Are you looking to enhance your recipes with a crispy, flavorful topping? Look no further than seasoned bread crumbs! Three tablespoons (30 g) of these bread crumbs contain roughly 110 calories, making them an indulgent yet manageable addition to your dishes.

In addition to adding a crunchy texture to your meals, seasoned bread crumbs can also offer additional flavor through the spices and herbs included in the mix. Some typical ingredients found in seasoned bread crumbs include wheat flour, sugar, salt, onion and garlic powder, and paprika.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of using seasoned bread crumbs, ways to incorporate them in your cooking, as well as some helpful tips for storage and alternatives if you're looking to cut back on calories or avoid gluten.

Calories in 3 tbsp (30 g) Seasoned Bread Crumbs

As previously mentioned, 3 tablespoons (30 g) of seasoned bread crumbs contain around 110 calories. While this may seem excessive for such a small serving size, it's important to remember that these breadcrumbs are typically used as a topping rather than a main dish ingredient. As long as you're mindful of portion sizes and balance out the calories with other nutritious components in your meal, seasoned bread crumbs can be a flavorful and satisfying addition to many dishes.

Ingredients in Seasoned Bread Crumbs

The specific ingredients in seasoned bread crumbs can vary depending on the brand and recipe, but some common ingredients include wheat flour, sugar, salt, onion and garlic powder, and paprika. Some brands may also include additional spices or herbs like thyme, rosemary, or cayenne pepper for added flavor. While these ingredients can provide a savory and delicious seasoning to your dishes, it's important to check the nutrition label for any potential allergens or excessive sodium or sugar content.

Benefits of Using Seasoned Bread Crumbs in Cooking

Seasoned bread crumbs can offer several benefits when it comes to cooking and meal preparation. First and foremost, these breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch to any dish, whether used as a topping for baked mac and cheese or as a coating for chicken or shrimp. In addition to the texture, seasoned bread crumbs also provide additional flavor through the various herbs and spices included in the mix. This can make even simple dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes more interesting and flavorful. Lastly, using seasoned bread crumbs as a topping or coating can also help to reduce food waste by using up stale bread or crumbs that might otherwise be thrown out.

Ways to Use Seasoned Bread Crumbs

There are countless ways to use seasoned bread crumbs in your cooking. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

• Use as a coating for chicken, fish, or shrimp
• Sprinkle on top of mac and cheese, casseroles, or pasta dishes
• Add to meatloaf or meatballs for added flavor and texture
• Use to make a savory crust for quiches or tartlets
• Mix with butter to create a flavorful topping for roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes
• Combine with grated Parmesan cheese and use as a coating for mozzarella sticks or zucchini fries

How to Make Seasoned Bread Crumbs at Home

While it's easy to pick up a pre-made container of seasoned bread crumbs at the store, making your own can be a fun and customizable option. Here's a simple recipe to follow:

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper
• Take 4-5 slices of bread (you can use any type you like, but white or wheat work well) and tear or chop them into small pieces
• Spread the bread pieces out onto the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is dry and crispy (but not burned!)
• Once the bread has cooled, pulse it in a food processor or blender until you have fine, bread crumb-like consistency
• Stir in your desired seasonings – some ideas include salt, pepper, onion and garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary – until the bread crumbs are coated evenly
• Transfer to an airtight container and store for up to a week

Storage Tips for Seasoned Bread Crumbs

Whether store-bought or homemade, seasoned bread crumbs should be stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from getting stale or absorbing moisture from the air. If properly stored, seasoned bread crumbs can last for up to a year in the pantry or cupboard. However, if you're unsure of their freshness or have stored them for an extended period of time, it's always best to give them a quick sniff or taste before using.

Healthy Alternatives for Seasoned Bread Crumbs

While seasoned bread crumbs can be a tasty addition to many dishes, they can also contribute a fair amount of calories, sodium, and carbohydrates. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, here are a few options to consider:

• Panko bread crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are coarser in texture and often lower in calories and sodium than traditional breadcrumbs. They can also provide a similar crunch and flavor to seasoned bread crumbs.
• Almond flour: Ground almonds can be used as a gluten-free and low-carbohydrate alternative to breadcrumbs. While they may not add the same texture or flavor as breadcrumbs, they can still provide a light coating for meat or vegetables.
• Rolled oats: Blended rolled oats can also offer a gluten-free and low-calorie coating option for baked dishes or meatloaf.

How to Incorporate Seasoned Bread Crumbs in a Low-Calorie Diet

If you're watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy the flavor and texture of seasoned bread crumbs, there are a few things you can do to make them work for your diet. Firstly, be mindful of your portion sizes. Instead of piling on a thick layer of bread crumbs, try using just a light sprinkling to add some crunch and flavor to your dish. You can also experiment with substituting in some of the healthier alternatives listed above, like panko or almond flour. Lastly, try to balance out the calories from the bread crumbs with other healthy and nutritious components in your meal. Adding plenty of vegetables or lean protein can help to fill you up and keep you satisfied without going overboard on calories.

Seasoned Bread Crumbs for Gluten-Free Cooking

If you're following a gluten-free diet or cooking for someone who is, seasoned bread crumbs may seem like a no-go. However, there are several brands and recipes out there that offer gluten-free options. One approach is to use gluten-free bread and make your own bread crumbs using the same process as outlined above. Alternatively, you can look for pre-made gluten-free bread crumbs at your local grocery store or online. These may be a bit pricier than traditional bread crumbs, but can be a lifesaver for those with gluten sensitivities.

Choosing the Right Seasoned Bread Crumbs for Your Dish

With so many brands and varieties of seasoned bread crumbs available, it can be tough to choose which one is right for your recipe. When selecting a seasoned bread crumb, consider the flavors and cuisine of your dish. For example, if you're making an Italian-inspired pasta dish, look for a seasoned bread crumb with herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. If you're making a spicy chicken dish, opt for a breadcrumb with a little heat like cayenne or chili powder. Additionally, don't be afraid to experiment with making your own seasoned bread crumbs to tailor the flavors to your personal taste preferences.