Pangrattato (Seasoned Breadcrumbs)

Pangrattato is the Italian name for seasoned toasted breadcrumbs, sometimes called poor man's parmesan. Day old bread is torn or blitzed into coarse crumbs, then toasted slowly in olive oil with garlic, anchovy, chili flakes, and a hit of lemon zest. The result is a savoury, crunchy topping that adds texture and salty umami to pasta, fish, salads, or roasted vegetables. Keep the heat moderate so the crumbs toast evenly without burning the aromatics. Once cooled, pangrattato stores well in an airtight jar for several days and lifts almost any simple dish to something special.