Ingredient
What is Pangrattato?
Pronounced /pan-graht-TAH-toh/
Definition
Pangrattato is toasted breadcrumbs used as a crunchy topping — the "poor man's parmesan" of southern Italy.
Stale bread torn and pulsed coarse, then toasted in olive oil with garlic and sometimes anchovy or chile.
It goes on pasta where cheese would clash, especially anything with anchovies, sardines, or broccoli rabe.
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Quick answer
How do you make Italian meatballs from scratch?
Mix 1 pound of ground meat (beef, or a beef-pork blend) with 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs soaked in ½ cup milk, 1 egg, ½ cup grated Parmesan, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently, roll into balls, and brown in a skillet or bake at 400°F until cooked through — about 160°F in the center for beef and pork. The secret to tenderness is the milk-soaked breadcrumb panade and a light hand.