Do You Have To Toast Panko Bread Crumbs?
Toasting Panko bread crumbs is not necessary, but it can enhance their flavor and texture. Toasting the crumbs in a dry pan or in the oven until they turn golden brown can give them a nuttier taste and a crispier texture, making them ideal for topping casseroles and baked dishes. However, if you are using Panko bread crumbs as a binder in recipes such as meatballs or crab cakes, toasting is not necessary and may not be desirable.