Cornflake Crumb
Description
Cornflake crumb is a textured, crunchy ingredient derived from crushed cornflakes—a cereal made from toasted flakes of corn. This ingredient is widely used in culinary applications to add a satisfying crunch and golden color to various dishes. Easily adaptable to recipes using either imperial or metric measurements, cornflake crumb can be measured in cups (American), ounces (American), grams (European), or milliliters (European), making it a universal component in both sweet and savory cuisine.
Common uses
Cornflake crumb is commonly used as a coating for baked or fried foods, a textural additive in baked goods, and as a topping for casseroles or desserts. It is frequently used to create a crunchy crust on proteins or vegetables and can be included in cookie or bar recipes for added crispness.
Nutritional value
Calories
Approximately 110 kcal per 1 oz (28g) or 393 kcal per 100g.
Protein
Contains about 2g of protein per 1 oz (28g) or 7g per 100g.
Fat
Contains about 0.5g of fat per 1 oz (28g) or 1.8g per 100g.
Carbohydrates
Contains about 24g of carbohydrates per 1 oz (28g) or 84g per 100g.
Vitamins
Often fortified with vitamins such as B-vitamins and iron.
Minerals
May include minerals like potassium and trace amounts of other essential nutrients.
Health benefits
When used in moderation, cornflake crumb can contribute to a balanced diet and may offer the added health benefits of any fortifications, such as added vitamins and minerals. Its use as a coating can also provide a lower-fat alternative to traditional breadcrumbs.
Potential risks
High in carbohydrates and may contain added sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation, particularly by individuals monitoring their sugar intake. Additionally, those with allergies to corn or sensitivities to gluten (unless using gluten-free cornflakes) should avoid cornflake crumbs.
Common recipes
Cornflake crumbs are used in recipes such as fried chicken, meatloaf, cornflake cookies, and as toppings for macaroni and cheese or apple crumble.
Cooking methods
They can be used in both baked and fried cooking methods, as well as mixed into batter or dough for added texture.
Pairing with other ingredients
Cornflake crumbs pair well with sweet ingredients like chocolate and honey, as well as savory flavors like cheese, garlic, and onion.
Summary
Cornflake crumb is a versatile food ingredient that offers a delightful crunch and golden hue to a variety of dishes. It bridges the gap between many culinary styles and dietary cultures, making it a staple for creative and traditional cooking alike. Its convenience and ease of use in recipes, coupled with its universal appeal, make it a popular choice for enhancing texture and flavor in food preparations around the world.