Homemade Croutons: A Step-by-Step Guide
Homemade croutons are a delicious and easy way to add flavor and texture to soups, salads, and casseroles. They are also a great way to use up stale bread.
Ingredients:
* 1 loaf of stale bread, cubed
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from oven and let cool.
Tips:
* For a chewier crouton, bake for a shorter amount of time.
* For a crispier crouton, bake for a longer amount of time.
* Add your favorite seasonings to the croutons for extra flavor.
* Store croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations:
* Add grated Parmesan cheese to the croutons for a cheesy flavor.
* Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or rosemary, to the croutons for a fresh flavor.
* Use different types of bread for different flavors and textures.
Serving Suggestions:
* Serve croutons on top of soups, salads, and casseroles.
* Use croutons as a topping for dips and spreads.
* Add croutons to stuffing or bread crumbs for extra texture.
Conclusion:
Homemade croutons are a delicious and versatile way to add flavor and texture to your favorite dishes. They are easy to make and can be customized to your liking. So next time you have some stale bread on hand, don't throw it away! Make a batch of homemade croutons instead.