Crunchy Topping for Dumplings, Veggies & More: Savory Butter Crumbs
Golden, aromatic & irresistibly versatile
If sweet butter crumbs are a dessert star, then these savory ones are your go-to for hearty dishes. Whether sprinkled over creamed vegetables, dumplings or pasta – they add that buttery, crispy kick you didn’t know you needed. Made with just a few pantry staples, these crumbs are quick, delicious, and perfect for using up stale bread. Easily made gluten-free or vegan!
Did you know? – FAQ
- What do savory butter crumbs pair well with?
They’re amazing over steamed cauliflower, green beans, asparagus, pasta, or savory filled dumplings. They’re especially great for Austrian-style “abgeschmolzenes Gemüse” – vegetables sautéed or tossed with butter and crumbs, like Karfiol or Bohnen. - Can I make them ahead or freeze them?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days, or freeze in small portions. - How to make them gluten-free or vegan?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or blitz stale gluten-free bread. Vegan butter works perfectly as a 1:1 replacement.
No breadcrumbs at home?
Roughly chop stale bread and blend in a Thermomix at speed 5 for 10 seconds. If still too coarse, repeat for another 3–5 seconds.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
INGREDIENTS
- 150 g butter (or vegan butter)
- 100 g breadcrumbs (gluten-free optional)
- 10 g fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 pinch salt
PREPARATION
- Make your own breadcrumbs (optional): If you don’t have breadcrumbs: Chop stale bread into chunks and process in a blender or Thermomix until fine. Repeat if needed.
- Melt the butter: Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat until foamy.
- Add breadcrumbs: Stir in the breadcrumbs and toast for a few minutes until golden brown.
- Season & enhance: Add chopped parsley and a pinch of salt. Stir well and roast for another minute.
- Serve: Sprinkle over your favorite savory dishes and enjoy the crunch!
Customize the crumbs with finely ground pumpkin seeds, hazelnuts, poppy seeds, sesame, flaked almonds, or sunflower seeds. You can even swap some or all of the butter for pumpkin seed oil or walnut oil for a deep, nutty flavor!
