From Taste of Home · Sharon Lehman, RDN · · 1m 20s
Crushed Nuts Replace Bread Crumbs for Crispy Coatings
Gluten-free? Try crushed nuts for crunchier, healthier breading.
In brief
Gluten-free? Try crushed nuts for crunchier, healthier breading. Sharon Lehman, RDN, found crushed nuts work better than bread crumbs for gluten-free crispy coatings with extra protein and flavor. Originally reported by Taste of Home.
Why I Swapped Bread Crumbs
Sharon Lehman, RDN, found crushed nuts work better than bread crumbs for gluten-free crispy coatings with extra protein and flavor.
Gluten-Free Cooking Challenge
Sharon had to give up gluten, which meant rethinking recipes that call for bread crumbs.
The Nut Swap Solution
Crushed nuts like almonds, pecans, walnuts, or pistachios create a crispy, flavorful coating without gluten.
Nutritional Benefits
Nuts boost protein, add heart-healthy fats, deliver fiber, and provide vitamins and minerals.
Flavor Variety
Almonds are mild, pecans and walnuts add toasty notes, pistachios bring distinct nuttiness.
Texture Trick
For coating proteins, crushed nuts need a coarse texture to stay in place without falling off.
Breading Technique
Dip protein in beaten eggs or Greek yogurt first, then press firmly into crushed nuts.
Best Uses
Use crushed nuts for quick-cooking proteins like chicken cutlets, pork chops, or salmon.
Allergy Warning
People with nut allergies should avoid this swap as it can cause reactions.
Recipe Examples
Try chicken parmesan with vodka sauce, pork schnitzel, or roasted cabbage caesar salad.
The key point
Sharon Lehman, RDN, found crushed nuts work better than bread crumbs for gluten-free crispy coatings with extra protein and flavor.
