Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs are an amazingly versatile ingredient. They can thicken sauces, bind together meatballs or croquettes, and they can serve as a crunchy coating or topping, just to name a few uses. Dry breadcrumbs are typically used as a topping to add a crunchy textural dimension to gratins, casseroles, and other similar dishes. Fresh breadcrumbs make an excellent binder, which is why they so often show up in meatloaf and stuffing recipes.