Step 1

Remove all crusts from the bread being used and discard.

Step 2

If blending/grinding the crumbs, the process will be helped by the surface being lightly dried before crumbing (but not to the same extent as when making standard breadcrumbs). For Panko, coarser crumbs are achieved with bread that still has a little moisture, but surface dryness will help prevent it clumping in the blender.

Step 3

Thus, if blending, cut the bread to be crumbed into slices or cubes and spread out on a tray.

Step 4

Leave uncovered at room temperature to dry naturally for a couple of hours. Turn the pieces occasionally to ensure the surfaces become touch dry.

Step 5

If not already cut, rip or slice the bread into smallish pieces (this will help them grind more easily).

Step 6

Transfer some of the bread pieces into a blender/grinder or food processor. It is better to grind small amounts in batches to ensure the bread breaks down easily and does not clump. It also gives better control over the size of the final crumb.

Step 7

PULSE the bread in the blender until it has been reduced to coarse crumbs.

Step 8

To grate the breadcrumbs, take a large chunk of white bread (no need to dry first) and grate into medium-coarse crumbs. Or alternatively, crumble the bread into crumbs with your fingers.

Step 9

Pre-heat the oven to 130 C/250 F/Gas ½

Step 10

Base-line a large baking sheet with baking paper. (Baking paper is not essential, but will help in transferring the crumbs to storage once dried).

Step 11

Transfer the crumbed bread to the baking sheet and spread as thinly as possible.

Step 12

Place the crumbs in the oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes (or until the crumbs are fully dry and very crunchy). Stir frequently while they bake to ensure they dry evenly and do not over-colour.

Step 13

Cool completely on the baking tray. (Or leave to cool in the cooling oven - leaving the door ajar)

Step 14

Either use straight away, or transfer to an airtight jar or container. The baking paper is helpful to lift and direct the crumbs into the container as helpful.

Step 15

Store at room temperature for up to 3 months.NOTE: If you live in a region of high humidity, the crumbs may deteriorate more quickly. In this case, store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.