Pangrattato (Italian Breadcrumbs)

Ingredients

• 2 cups sourdough bread (whole wheat pieces, 2 thick slices)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated )
• Fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish))

Instructions

1. 1

   Cut the stale sourdough bread into small pieces, roughly ½-inch cubes.

2. 2

   Place the small pieces of stale sourdough bread in a food processor and pulse until you achieve coarse bread crumbs.

3. 3

   Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the breadcrumbs to the skillet and toss them in the garlic-infused oil until they are coated evenly.

4. 4

   Add the minced garlic, red chili flakes, onion powder, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried basil, and salt over the bread pieces in the skillet cook the pangrattato mixture on the skillet, stirring frequently, until the bread pieces turn golden brown and crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

5. 5

   Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, mix well to combine all the ingredients and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

6. 6

   Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

7. 7

   Use the pangrattato as a delicious topping for pasta dishes, roasted vegetables, soups, or salads. It adds a crunchy texture and flavorful kick to your favorite recipes.