Chef johns homemade croutons –Homemade croutons are a delightful addition to soups and salads, enhancing both texture and flavor. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create perfectly crispy croutons that are incredibly easy to make. Whether you want to add a crunchy element to your Caesar salad or a hearty bite to your vegetable soup, these croutons will elevate your dish!
Homemade Croutons
Making your own croutons allows you to control the ingredients and customize the seasonings to suit your taste. These croutons can be made with stale bread, which makes for a sustainable and delicious use of ingredients that might otherwise go to waste.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of stale bread (French or Italian work best)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Begin by cutting the stale bread into bite-sized cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with olive oil, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated.
- Add the garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl, mixing thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. If you wish, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake the croutons in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Stir the croutons halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Store the cooled croutons in an airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to a week.
These homemade croutons are sure to impress at your next meal. They not only add a wonderful crunch but also a sophisticated touch to your culinary creations. Enjoy!