Getting that perfect crispy breading to coat items is easier than you think. It is all about following the basic breading procedure. The Breading Process can be achieved with great success in just three easy steps. Once you know the basic breading process you can experiment and begin creating you own custom coating for your favorite proteins and vegetables.
Here is how it works:
The basic breading process using three stations, Seasoned Flour, Egg Wash and your Breading. Each station has its specific purpose. You will want to put each of these in shallow bowls or containers for easy dipping.
Step #1 Flour: You are going to “dredge” or coat the item evening with flour shaking off the excess. The flour helps the egg stick to the item and create a protective barrier between the breading and the item. Regular all-purpose flour works best, any flour, even gluten-free flour, will do. The flour can be seasoned with salt, pepper, herbs and spices, or left unseasoned.
Step #2 Egg Wash: Dip the flour coated item into the egg wash being sure to coat all sides and allowing the excess to drop off. The egg sticks to the flour giving you an even sticking surface for adhering the coating. You can use well-beaten eggs by themselves, or an egg wash: a mixture of eggs and milk, eggs and cream, or eggs and water; use about one tablespoon of liquid per egg.
Step #3 Breading: Press the egg and flour coated item into the breadcrumbs gently shaking off excess. You can use regular breadcrumbs, panko, corn meal, cracker crumbs, chips, corn flakes, seasoned crushed croutons, even stuffing mix The breading gives the crispy texture and if seasoned well adds flavor.
Discard any unused flour, egg wash and bread crumbs to avoid cross contamination and Cook or Freeze for later use.
Here I am making my easy version of Eggplant Parmesan so I lightly spray them with olive oil and broil them till lightly golden.
When all slices are breaded and broiled just layer them between sauce, and cheese.
Then cover and bake or freeze for later, I always like to label items with the item and cooking directions right on it for easy cooking later. Read further for full Eggplant Parmesan recipe.
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