Making Bread Crumbs: Air Fryer Method

Making breadcrumbs in an air fryer is a simple process that can be done in under 15 minutes. It is a great way to use up leftover bread or bread crusts, and you can season them according to your preference. The key to getting crispy breadcrumbs is to cut the bread into small pieces to ensure even toasting and air circulation. You can use any type of bread, such as white, whole wheat, or gluten-free, and the breadcrumbs can be stored in an airtight container for up to two months.

What type of bread to use

You can use any type of bread to make homemade breadcrumbs in an air fryer. This includes white bread, whole wheat, multigrain, or oat bread. You can also use gluten-free bread if you want to make gluten-free breadcrumbs.

It is recommended to use slightly stale or day-old bread for drier breadcrumbs. Fresh bread can also be used, but it needs to be left out to dry out before being put in the air fryer.

Bread slices should be cut into small, equally-sized pieces to ensure even toasting. The size of the pieces depends on how large or small you want the breadcrumbs to be.

How to make gluten-free breadcrumbs

Making gluten-free breadcrumbs is an easy process that can be done in an air fryer or an oven. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

• Gluten-free bread (any type, including white, whole grain, rye, or a mix)
• Optional: Olive oil or other cooking spray
• Optional: Spices and seasonings of your choice (e.g. smoked paprika, dried thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, oregano)

Instructions:

Air Fryer Method:

• Cut the gluten-free bread into 1-inch squares. There is no need to remove the crust unless you prefer to.
• Transfer the bread cubes to the air fryer basket. You may want to spray a bit of olive oil or cooking spray on top for enhanced toastiness.
• Set the air fryer to 340-350°F (175°C) and air fry for 4-8 minutes, or until the bread is browned and crispy.
• Remove the toasted bread cubes from the air fryer and let them cool down.
• Place the cooled bread cubes into a food processor or blender. Add any desired spices and seasonings.
• Pulse the food processor in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, checking the consistency after each burst. For finer breadcrumbs, blend for a longer duration; for coarser breadcrumbs, blend for a shorter time.
• Transfer the gluten-free breadcrumbs to an airtight container for storage. They can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.

Oven Method:

• Preheat your oven to 300-325°F (149°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
• Cut the gluten-free bread into 1-inch cubes. As with the air fryer method, there is no need to remove the crust unless you prefer to.
• Place the bread cubes into a food processor and pulse until you get your desired crumb size. Alternatively, you can break the bread into crumbs by hand.
• Spread the breadcrumbs evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the breadcrumbs are lightly golden brown and dry.
• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the breadcrumbs cool completely.
• Transfer the cooled breadcrumbs to a glass jar for storage at room temperature or a freezer-safe container for longer storage. They will stay fresh for months in the freezer.

How to store breadcrumbs

Homemade breadcrumbs can be stored in an airtight container or jar at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to store them for longer, you can put them in a freezer bag and freeze them. It is not recommended to store fresh breadcrumbs in the refrigerator as this can make them go stale faster.

Dry breadcrumbs will last for up to six months in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a humid environment, it is best to store your breadcrumbs in the refrigerator or freezer.

When storing breadcrumbs, it is important to ensure they are completely cool before sealing the container. If they are still warm, condensation can occur, resulting in unwanted moisture.

Breadcrumbs can also be frozen. To freeze, place the breadcrumbs in a sealed plastic bag and remove all the air before putting them in the freezer. Double bag the breadcrumbs or wrap the bag in aluminium foil if you plan to store them for more than a few weeks.

How to use breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ways to use breadcrumbs:

As a Coating

Breadcrumbs are often used as a coating for meat, fish, and vegetables to give them a crispy texture. You can use them to bread chicken, fish, shrimp, pork, or vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, or squash. Simply dip the food item in flour, then egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs before frying, baking, or air frying.

As a Topping

Breadcrumbs can also be used as a crunchy topping for casseroles, pasta dishes, salads, and even desserts. Sprinkle them on mac and cheese, spaghetti casserole, baked pasta dishes, or use them instead of croutons on salads. You can also toast breadcrumbs in butter and use them as a topping for pasta or creamy dishes.

As a Binder

Breadcrumbs act as a binder in dishes like meatballs, meatloaf, burgers, and patties. They help hold the ingredients together and add moisture to the final product. For example, adding breadcrumbs to lean ground meat for burgers will result in juicier and more flavorful patties.

As a Filler

Breadcrumbs can be used as a filler or stuffing for meat, vegetables, and casseroles. For instance, you can stuff chicken breasts with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese before baking. Breadcrumbs can also be used in recipes like stuffed mushrooms, peppers, or tomatoes.

In Baked Goods

Breadcrumbs can be used in various baked goods, both savoury and sweet. They can be added to the dough or batter to provide texture and moisture. For example, breadcrumbs are commonly used in meatball or meatloaf mixtures. They can also be used as a topping or crust for pies, cookies, or muffins.

In Breaded Dishes

Breadcrumbs are essential for achieving that crispy, golden crust in breaded dishes. Use them to coat foods like chicken katsu, fish sticks, crab cakes, scotch eggs, croquettes, or schnitzel before frying. Breadcrumbs help create a delicious crunchy texture and golden colour.

How to make breadcrumbs without an air fryer

If you don't have an air fryer, you can still make breadcrumbs at home using a regular convection oven. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Preparation

Before you begin, decide what type of bread you want to use. You can use any type of bread, including white, whole wheat, multigrain, or gluten-free bread. You can also use leftover bread crusts and slices. If you're using a fresh loaf of bread, let it sit out overnight to dry out a bit before making your breadcrumbs.

Grinding the Bread

The first step is to grind the bread slices into a fine consistency using a food processor. If you don't have a food processor, you can use a blender or a gallon freezer bag and a rolling pin. Crush the bread into fine pieces, being careful of your fingers if using a grater.

Baking the Breadcrumbs

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the breadcrumbs over a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 10-12 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Cooling and Storing

Remove the breadcrumbs from the oven and allow them to cool completely. Add any desired seasonings and herbs. Store the breadcrumbs in an airtight container or jar. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Tips and Variations

You can customize the flavor of your breadcrumbs by adding different seasonings or ingredients like Parmesan cheese. For gluten-free breadcrumbs, simply use gluten-free bread slices. You can also experiment with different types of bread to find your preferred taste and texture.

Frequently asked questions