Are you tired of letting those leftover English muffins go stale in your bread basket? Don't toss them! This easy recipe will show you how to transform your stale English muffins into delicious, versatile breadcrumbs perfect for a variety of dishes. It's a fantastic way to reduce food waste and add a unique flavor to your cooking. This recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a quick dinner solution or an ingredient for countless recipes. Get ready to enjoy these easy recipes and healthy meals made even better!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 stale English muffins (any flavor)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Muffins: Remove any crusts from the English muffins if desired. Tear or cut the muffins into small, roughly 1/2-inch pieces. This ensures even toasting and prevents large, uneven crumbs.
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Toast the Muffin Pieces: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the muffin pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown and completely dried out. This step is crucial for creating breadcrumbs that won’t get soggy.
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Add Flavor: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the toasted muffins cool slightly. While still warm, drizzle with melted butter (or olive oil) and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to your taste. Experiment with other herbs and spices for unique flavor combinations!
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Pulse into Crumbs: Once cooled, transfer the toasted muffin pieces to a food processor or blender. Pulse until you reach your desired crumb consistency—fine, medium, or coarse. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herby goodness: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Cheese please: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor and richness.
- Freezing for later: You can freeze the breadcrumbs for longer storage. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and use as needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories (depending on the type of English muffin and added fat).
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-4g
These values are estimates and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Delicious Ways to Use Your Homemade Breadcrumbs:
Your homemade English muffin breadcrumbs are now ready to elevate your culinary creations! Use them to:
- Top casseroles and gratins for a crispy, flavorful topping.
- Bread chicken, fish, or vegetables before pan-frying or baking.
- Add texture and flavor to meatloaf or meatballs.
- Thicken sauces and soups.
- Make a delicious breading for your favorite fried foods.
Making breadcrumbs from stale English muffins is a simple and delicious way to avoid food waste and add a unique touch to your cooking. Enjoy experimenting with these best recipes and creating your own flavorful variations!