Panko refers to Japanese breadcrumbs made from crustless bread, known to be light, airy, and crispy. These breadcrumbs have become increasingly popular as a coating for fried foods, being favored for their distinct texture that remains crunchy even after cooking, particularly for dishes like tonkatsu, tempura, and various appetizers.
As a versatile ingredient, panko can be used in a variety of recipes, from breading fish, poultry or vegetables to creating a crunchy topping for baked casseroles. Panko also works as a binder in meatballs and can easily adapt to accommodate various flavors when combined with spices, herbs, and seasonings. Home cooks frequently use panko as a lighter alternative to traditional breadcrumbs for added crispiness and crunch to their favorite dishes.