Elevate Your Cooking with Panko: The Secret to Crispy Delights
Panko, a Japanese-style breadcrumb, is a game-changer in the culinary world. Its unique properties make it an ideal coating for a variety of dishes, from crispy asparagus to sweet potato roasts and chicken cutlets.
The Panko Difference
So, what sets panko apart from standard breadcrumbs? According to Pam Becker, media representative for Progresso, it’s the absence of crusts. Panko is made from crustless white bread, which is coarsely ground into airy, large flakes. These flakes provide a light, crunchy coating that stays crispy longer due to their low grease absorption.
Beyond Asian Cuisine
While panko is traditionally used in Asian cooking, its popularity is growing in Western dishes. It’s an excellent topping for eggplant Parmesan, adds texture to mac and cheese, and serves as a binding agent for veggie burgers. For those with gluten intolerance, crushed Rice Chex can be used as a panko substitute.
Panko Recipes to Try
Discover the power of panko with these three mouth-watering recipes:
Crispy Asparagus Fries
Transform fresh asparagus spears into a healthy fries alternative by flouring, dipping in egg, and rolling in panko. Bake until crispy and tender.
Tempura-Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Roast diced sweet potatoes with mirin, sugar, and vinegar, then finish with a crispy coating of toasted panko. The result is a sweet, satisfying, and surprising dish.
Japanese Chicken Katsu with Curry Sauce
Pound chicken cutlets thin, coat with panko, and fry until crispy. Serve with a warmly spiced Japanese curry sauce over white rice to soak up all the flavor.
Get ready to take your cooking to the next level with the magic of panko!
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