The Freeze-And-Grate Method For Easy Homemade Breadcrumbs

When it comes to cooking and making life easier, we are definitely a fan of convenience foods. Already shredded cheese can be a lifesaver when you are making macaroni and cheese or a plate of loaded nachos. And those beautiful prepackaged salad kits can make getting a salad on the table that much easier on those busy weeknights when you are trying to eat healthy. However, we are also fans of waste not, want not. When you find yourself with a half-eaten loaf of bread that has lost its softness and is going stale, tossing it should not be the first option. That baby still has life in it.

You never know when you are going to need some breadcrumbs to make a baked eggplant parmesan or pan-fried coconut shrimp, and if you find yourself without a container of Panko or just want to mix-up your breadcrumbs, this ingredient is easy to make. Breadcrumbs are simply crumbled bread, often mixed with some salty seasonings to make their flavor pop, and even toasted to golden perfection. 

If you have a box grater and want to learn how to make this cooking staple in a matter of minutes, then this trick is for you.

To make bread crumbs from bread that is past its sandwich-making prime, first stick those slices in the freezer to harden. Once your bread is frozen, you can breakout your favorite cheese grater and using the side with larger holes, move a slice back and forth to create your breadcrumbs. You can store your breadcrumbs in the freezer in a freezer safe storage bag or container and simply use as needed. Breadcrumbs last a long time, but some say that after about three months their flavor quality can start to deteriorate. If you are unsure of your breadcrumbs freshness, the best thing to do is taste them to make this determination.

If you plan on toasting your breadcrumbs, you can do so as you use them. This can be accomplished either on the stove in a skillet or in the oven on a sheet pan. However, if you know you will be able to use your breadcrumbs within a week, you can toast and freeze them. 

Making breadcrumbs is cost-effective and it is a great way to cut down on food waste — a win-win.