Bread croutons

Delicious recipe for crispy bread croutons

Total preparation time: 25 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Bread croutons are a versatile ingredient that can transform a simple salad into a sophisticated dish or add a crunchy texture to a warm soup. These little delights are not only tasty but also very easy to prepare. Throughout history, bread has been a staple food, and croutons originated from the desire to make use of leftover bread, turning it into savory snacks.

Necessary ingredients:

- 3-4 slices of bread (baguette or whole grain bread are ideal)
- 3-4 tablespoons of quality olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric – for a splash of color and nutritional benefits

Preparing the croutons:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by choosing the bread you will use. Stale bread is perfect for making croutons, but you can also use fresh bread. Cut the slices into cubes of about 2-3 cm. They don’t need to be perfect; an irregular shape gives a rustic and authentic look.

2. Seasoning the bread: Place the bread cubes in a large bowl. Add the olive oil and spices: pepper, sweet paprika, and turmeric. Mix gently by hand, ensuring that all the cubes are evenly coated with oil and spices. The olive oil will not only give them a delicious taste but will also help achieve a crispy texture.

3. Preparing the baking tray: Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the croutons from sticking. This will also make cleaning up easier later.

4. Baking the croutons: Arrange the bread cubes on the tray, ensuring they do not overlap. This step is crucial for getting croutons crispy on all sides. Bake them in the oven for about 15 minutes or until they turn golden and crunchy. It’s good to stir them halfway through the baking time to ensure they brown evenly.

5. Cooling and serving: Once the croutons are ready, take the tray out of the oven and let them cool slightly. They will become even crunchier as they cool. You can serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container for later use.

Practical tips:

- Spice variations: You can experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, basil, garlic powder, or grated parmesan. Each combination will give the croutons a different flavor profile, so feel free to try!
- Using bread: Whole grain or seeded bread adds extra fiber and nutrients. You can also use gluten-free bread to adapt the recipe for those with food intolerances.
- Serving: Croutons are perfect for adding to soups, salads, or as a snack with a dip. I recommend serving them with a yogurt and garlic sauce or with hummus for a delicious combination.

Nutritional information (per serving, approximately):

- Calories: 150-200 kcal
- Fat: 10-15 g (mostly from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 g
- Protein: 3-5 g

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen bread? Yes, but you will need to thaw it completely before cutting and seasoning.
- How long do croutons last? If stored in an airtight container, croutons can last up to a week. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing.
- Can I make croutons without oil? You can try baking them without oil, but they will be less crunchy and won’t have the same flavors. Oil helps to caramelize the bread.

These bread croutons are not just a simple ingredient, but a way to add a touch of magic to your dishes. By experimenting with various spices, you can transform a simple recipe into an unforgettable culinary experience! Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent in the kitchen, where creativity knows no bounds!