HOW TO DREDGE ITEMS

To dredge or bread means to coat something lightly, usually using flour, cornmeal or breadcrumbs. This technique is used to create a crunchy, browned surface on foods that will be sauteed or fried. Don't forget to season your breading to add flavor as well as crunch.
 

To help the coating stick, food is sometimes first dredged in flour...
 

...dipped into an egg wash...
 

and then into the cornmeal or breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker coating called a breading.