How to Refrigerate or Freeze Bread Crumbs
Both purchased and homemade bread crumbs are a useful addition to the home pantry. Use them to thicken meatballs and other ground meat dishes, as a coating for meats, or as a casserole topping. Cubed bread crumbs also make a suitable replacement for croutons on top of salads. With proper storage your bread crumbs can last in the pantry for up to a year without a loss in quality or flavor. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Dry fresh-made bread crumbs completely before storing in the refrigerator. Frozen crumbs don't require drying. Spread the crumbs out on a baking sheet and bake in a 300 degree Fahrenheit oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until the crumbs are dry and golden brown.
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Cool the bread crumbs to room temperature. Place them in a tightly sealing container or plastic bag and seal closed.
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Place the bread crumbs in the refrigerator or freezer. Store for up to six months in the fridge or up to 12 months in the freezer.
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Use the bread crumbs in cooked dishes straight from the fridge or freezer -- there is no need to thaw them. Thaw at room temperature for one to two hours prior to serving uncooked, such as a salad topping.
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Tips & Warnings
Make your own bread crumbs by cubing then baking fresh bread in the oven for up to 30 minutes.
You can store also store dried bread crumbs for up to six months in a tightly sealed container in the pantry.
Do not refrigerate soft or fresh crumbs in the fridge, as they become soggy within a few days. Fresh crumbs are also more prone to mold than dried crumbs.
