Bread Heel Croutons Recipe
From Scraps to Snacks: The Story of Bread Heel Croutons
Croutons, derived from the French word 'croûton' meaning 'crust', have a long and resourceful history. Originally, they were a way to utilize stale bread, preventing waste in kitchens both humble and grand. While croutons are now widely available commercially, making them at home, especially from bread heels, honors this tradition of thrift and resourcefulness.
This recipe specifically focuses on using bread heels, the end pieces of a loaf that are often discarded. By transforming these into crispy, flavorful croutons, you're not only reducing food waste but also creating a delicious and versatile ingredient. These homemade croutons add a satisfying crunch and savory flavor to salads, soups, or can even be enjoyed as a simple snack.
Versatile and Flavorful
The beauty of homemade croutons lies in their versatility. You can customize the flavors to your liking by experimenting with different herbs, spices, and cheeses. This recipe provides a basic framework, but feel free to get creative and tailor it to your own taste preferences. Whether you prefer a classic garlic and herb crouton or something more adventurous, the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread heels, cubed (about 6-8 heels)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1.Prepare the Bread
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the bread heels into roughly 1/2-inch cubes. If the heels are very hard, you can lightly dampen them with water before cubing.
- 2.Season the Croutons
In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure all the bread cubes are evenly coated.
- 3.Bake the Croutons
Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- 4.Cool and Serve
Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Nutritional Information
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Tips
- For extra flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese to the croutons before baking.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to your preference.
- If you don't have Italian herbs, you can use a combination of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- To make ahead, prepare the croutons and store them in an airtight container until ready to use.
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