Oat flakes: A crunchy twist on traditional pork chop breading

Pork chops are a dish we’ve eaten countless times. Therefore, we can say with full confidence that it’s the breading that plays a key role in the flavour of this dish. In our opinion, the crunchier it is, the better. To achieve this effect, we suggest using... oat flakes instead of traditional flour and breadcrumbs. Sounds crazy? Maybe, but only until you try the first bite.

Wondering how to do it? It certainly won’t surprise you that using oat flakes as breading for chops is remarkably simple. Pork chops are just one of many examples. Oat flakes also perfectly cover chicken fillets, nuggets, or fish. Just give it a try, and you'll see for yourself.

Oat flake breading can be prepared in two different ways. Some use whole flakes, which gives the dish an interesting crunchiness and makes the chops look impressive. Others prefer to grind the flakes in a blender, aiming for tenderness. Of course, before coating the chops with flakes, you must first dip them in a beaten egg.

Replacing traditional breading ingredients such as flour and breadcrumbs has become extremely popular recently. Such variations can be found not only in restaurants but also in Canadians' homes. Some use ground walnuts, others—less healthy—breakfast cornflakes. These are all interesting ideas, but not the only ones. What else can be used as breading?

• Flaxseed. This extremely healthy ingredient works perfectly as breading for chicken or pork chops.
• Sesame. Sesame seeds burn quite quickly, so you must be very careful when frying chops with sesame breading. Some mix sesame with breadcrumbs—that’s also a good way!
• Parmesan is ideal for cheese lovers, adventurous culinary enthusiasts, and fans of strong umami flavours. Grated Parmesan won’t work independently and must be combined with another breading ingredient.