Looking for a healthier alternative to traditional bread crumbs? Making your own whole wheat bread crumbs is easy and allows you to control the ingredients. Whether you want to use them as a coating for crispy chicken tenders or as a topping for a delightful casserole, follow these simple steps to make flavorful and nutritious whole wheat bread crumbs.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start making whole wheat bread crumbs, you’ll need the following:
- 4 slices of whole wheat bread
- A food processor or a blender
- A baking sheet
- A mixing bowl
- Airtight storage container
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Take the slices of whole wheat bread and remove the crusts, if desired. Cut the bread into smaller pieces to fit in the food processor or blender. It’s best to work in batches rather than overcrowding the processing container.
Step 3: Process the Bread
Place the bread pieces into the food processor or blender. Pulse the machine on low speed until the bread is broken down into crumbs. Avoid over-processing, as you want a coarse texture to your bread crumbs.
Step 4: Dry the Bread Crumbs
Spread the freshly processed bread crumbs onto a baking sheet in an even layer. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are completely dry. Shake or stir the crumbs halfway through to ensure even drying.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Once the bread crumbs are dry, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Transfer the cooled bread crumbs to a mixing bowl, and if desired, add any seasonings or herbs for extra flavor. Mix well to combine.
Finally, store your homemade whole wheat bread crumbs in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a month or stored in the freezer for extended shelf life.
Now you have delicious, whole wheat bread crumbs ready to add a nutritious crunch to your favorite dishes. Enjoy cooking with this healthier alternative and experiment with various seasonings to customize the taste to your liking! Your family and friends will appreciate the extra effort and the added health benefits.