BROWNED OR BUTTERED BREAD CRUMBS
About 1 cup
Once browned, you may season the crumbs with bits of finely crumbled cooked bacon, minced toasted nuts, finely grated Parmesan, minced fresh herbs or crumbled dried herbs, finely grated lemon zest, black pepper, or red pepper flakes. These flavorful crumbs make an excellent topping for green salads, roasted vegetable dishes, sautéed greens, and pasta dishes.
Heat in a skillet over medium heat:
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) butter, olive oil, or a combination
If desired, reduce the heat to low, add, and cook for 5 minutes:
- (1 or 2 garlic cloves, lightly smashed)
Remove the garlic from the pan. Increase the heat to medium and stir in:
- 1 cup dry bread crumbs or panko or 1 ½ cups soft bread crumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the crumbs turn golden brown. If desired, mince the cooked garlic cloves and stir into the crumbs.