Croutons Recipe

Croutons recipe is a simple yet delicious addition to salads, soups, or even as a snack on their own. They’re easy to make and a fantastic way to use up stale bread that might otherwise go to waste. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make your own homemade croutons that are far better than anything you can buy at the store. This guide will take you through each step of making perfectly crunchy, flavorful croutons, and share a few variations to help you make them your own.

A Brief History of Croutons Recipe:

The word “crouton” comes from the French word croûte, meaning “crust.” Croutons are believed to have originated in France, where stale bread was repurposed into small, crispy pieces that added texture and flavor to various dishes. This clever way of reusing bread made croutons a staple in European cuisine, eventually becoming a beloved addition to salads, soups, and stuffing dishes worldwide. Today, croutons are widely enjoyed for their versatility and satisfying crunch.

Croutons Recipe

Pinklady

The word "crouton" comes from the French word croûte, meaning "crust." Croutons are believed to have originated in France, where stale bread was repurposed into small, crispy pieces that added texture and flavor to various dishes. 

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Cuisine French

Servings 4

Calories 80 kcal

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups of day-old bread, cubed (sourdough, French baguette, or white bread works well)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor

See also  Pimento Cheese Recipe

Instructions

 

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature helps the croutons get crispy without burning too quickly.
• Take your bread and cut it into bite-sized cubes, about ½ to ¾ inches in size. If the bread is fresh, you can leave it out for a few hours to dry out slightly, which will help it become crunchier in the oven.
• Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, ensuring each cube is lightly coated.
• Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper over the bread cubes. For an extra kick of flavor, add some grated Parmesan cheese.
• Toss the bread cubes until each piece is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
• Spread the seasoned bread cubes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this will help them bake evenly.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. The croutons should be golden and crispy but not too dark. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.
• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the croutons cool for a few minutes. Once cool, they’ll continue to crisp up slightly.
• Serve immediately in salads, soups, or as a crunchy snack. Store any leftover croutons in an airtight container for up to a week.

Video

Keyword Croutons Recipe

Similar Recipes:

– Garlic Butter Croutons: Swap out the olive oil for garlic-infused butter to add a rich, savory taste.
– Herbed Croutons: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a more aromatic crouton.
– Parmesan Croutons: Toss bread cubes with Parmesan cheese before baking for an extra cheesy flavor.
– Spicy Croutons: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a touch of heat.
– Pumpernickel Croutons: Use pumpernickel or rye bread for a unique, hearty crouton perfect for creamy soups.

FAQs Frequently Asked Questions About Croutons Recipe:

1. Can I make croutons without an oven?

Yes! You can make croutons in a skillet. Just heat a bit of oil, add seasoned bread cubes, and toast them over medium heat until golden and crispy.

2. How long can homemade croutons be stored?

Store croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

3. Can I freeze homemade croutons?

Yes, freeze them in a resealable bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

4. What bread is best for croutons?

Sturdy, slightly stale bread works best. Sourdough, baguettes, and white or whole wheat bread are popular choices.

5. Are croutons gluten-free?

Traditional croutons are not gluten-free, but you can make gluten-free croutons by using gluten-free bread.

6. Can I make croutons with fresh bread?

Yes, but fresh bread may need a few extra minutes in the oven to become crunchy.

7. What can I use instead of olive oil?

Melted butter or other oils like avocado or sunflower oil can work well, depending on your flavor preference.

8. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, but it’s best to infuse the oil with minced garlic first to avoid burning garlic bits in the oven.

9. Why are my croutons soft?

If croutons are soft, they likely need more baking time. Bake until they’re dry and crispy.

10. Can I add cheese to my croutons?

Absolutely! Grated Parmesan cheese is a popular addition, adding a rich, salty flavor to the croutons.

Conclusion:

Making croutons at home is a quick and rewarding way to use up extra bread and add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your meals. With a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have perfectly crunchy, flavorful croutons that elevate any salad or soup. Try experimenting with different herbs and seasonings to make croutons that suit your taste.

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