Crunchy Homemade Croutons Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of stale bread
  • 1/4 cup of olive oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme or basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Cut the stale bread into 1-inch cubes and place them into a large bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the oil mixture over the bread cubes and toss until they are evenly coated.
  5. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Check and stir them occasionally to prevent burning.
  7. Allow the croutons to cool completely before using. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Tools for making

  • Baking sheet - Used to bake the croutons in the oven.
  • Large bowl - Used to toss the bread cubes with the oil mixture.
  • Small bowl - Used to mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
  • Knife - Used to cut the stale bread into cubes.
  • Measuring cups - Used to measure the olive oil.
  • Measuring spoons - Used to measure the minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon - Used to evenly coat the bread cubes with the oil mixture.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of bread, such as whole wheat, sourdough, or rye, for unique flavor variations.
  • Add grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast to the oil mixture for a cheesy flavor.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices, like oregano, paprika, or onion powder, to customize the seasoning.
  • Add a hint of sweetness by sprinkling a pinch of sugar or honey over the bread cubes before baking.
  • For a spicy kick, toss the bread cubes with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
  • Include dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, for a sweet and savory combination.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or substitute with gluten-free crackers.
  • Make it vegan by using plant-based oil, like coconut oil, and omitting the cheese or using a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Try different shapes or sizes for the croutons, like small squares, thin strips, or larger chunks.
  • Add nuts or seeds, such as sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds, for extra crunch and flavor.

Recipe overview

Looking for a way to use up that stale bread in your pantry? Why not turn it into delicious, homemade croutons! Croutons are a fantastic addition to salads and soups, adding a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor. This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own croutons at home. With a hint of garlic, a touch of herbs, and a dash of salt and pepper, these croutons are packed with flavor. They are crispy, easy to make, and can be stored for use throughout the week. So, forget about store-bought croutons and start making your own with this simple and flavorful recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?
    Yes, you can use fresh bread if you don't have stale bread. However, the texture may be slightly different, and you may need to bake them for a shorter time.
  2. Can I use a different type of oil?
    Absolutely! You can use other oils like vegetable oil or canola oil as alternatives to olive oil.
  3. Can I add other seasonings or spices?
    Yes, you can customize the seasonings to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even grated cheese to enhance the flavor.
  4. How long do the croutons stay fresh?
    If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the croutons can stay fresh for up to 1 week.
  5. Can I freeze the croutons?
    Yes, you can freeze the croutons for longer storage. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and they can be kept for several months.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking sheet - Used for baking the croutons in the oven.
  • Large bowl - Used for tossing the bread cubes with the oil mixture.
  • Small bowl - Used for mixing the olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
  • Knife - Used for cutting the stale bread into cubes.
  • Measuring cup - Used for measuring the olive oil.
  • Measuring spoons - Used for measuring the minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
  • Spatula or spoon - Used for spreading the bread cubes on the baking sheet.
  • Airtight container - Used for storing the croutons after they have cooled.

Origin stories

Croutons, those crispy, delightful additions to salads and soups, hail from France. They were a creation born out of necessity, an ingenious way to use up stale bread. The term crouton is derived from the French word 'croûton', which means "crust". To this day, French cuisine still incorporates croutons in many dishes, including the classic Soupe à l'oignon or French Onion Soup, where a cheesy crouton becomes a fundamental part of the dish. This practice of using every part of the food, not wasting and thereby showing respect to the ingredients, is a central ethos in French cooking. So, next time when you savor those crunchy morsels, remember you're engaging in a rich culinary tradition that's been practiced for ages.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.