Croutons are a delicious addition to salads, soups, and other dishes, adding a satisfying crunch and flavor. While store-bought croutons are convenient, making your own croutons from sandwich bread is a simple and cost-effective way to elevate your meals. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of homemade croutons, the best types of bread to use, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make croutons out of sandwich bread.
The Benefits of Homemade Croutons
Making your own croutons from sandwich bread has several advantages over buying them pre-made. Here are a few benefits:
- Customization: By making your own croutons, you can choose the type of bread, seasonings, and flavorings you want to use. This allows you to tailor your croutons to your specific tastes and dietary needs.
- Cost-effective: Using leftover sandwich bread to make croutons is a great way to reduce food waste and save money. You can also buy day-old bread at a discount from your local bakery or grocery store.
- Freshness: Homemade croutons are always fresher than store-bought ones, which can sit on a shelf for weeks or months. This means your croutons will have a better texture and flavor.
Choosing the Right Bread
Not all bread is created equal when it comes to making croutons. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a bread:
- Type of bread: A hearty, dense bread works best for croutons. Look for bread with some chew and texture, such as whole wheat, sourdough, or ciabatta. Avoid using fluffy white bread, as it will not hold up well to the cubing and toasting process.
- Age of bread: Day-old bread is ideal for making croutons. If your bread is too fresh, it may not cube well and may be too soft to toast properly. If your bread is too old, it may be too dry and crumbly.
- Moisture content: Bread with a lower moisture content works best for croutons. This will help the bread toast evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy.
Popular Bread Options for Croutons
Here are some popular bread options for making croutons:
- Whole wheat bread: A classic choice for croutons, whole wheat bread has a nutty flavor and a dense texture that holds up well to toasting.
- Sourdough bread: Sourdough bread has a tangy, slightly sour flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and flavorings.
- Ciabatta bread: Ciabatta bread has a light, airy texture and a slightly sweet flavor that works well in croutons.
How to Make Croutons from Sandwich Bread
Making croutons from sandwich bread is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients
- 2 cups sandwich bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, dried herbs, grated cheese, or other seasonings of your choice
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Step 2: Cube Your Bread
Cut your sandwich bread into 1/2-inch cubes. You can use a serrated knife or a bread knife to get clean, even cuts.
Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings until the bread is evenly coated.
Step 4: Spread Out the Bread Cubes
Spread the bread cubes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the cubes are not overlapping, as this can prevent them from toasting evenly.
Step 5: Toast the Bread Cubes
Toast the bread cubes in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Stir the croutons halfway through the toasting time to ensure even browning.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cool, transfer the croutons to an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your croutons to the next level:
- Use a variety of seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings and flavorings, such as garlic powder, dried herbs, grated cheese, or spices, to add depth and complexity to your croutons.
- Add some crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, to add texture and crunch to your croutons.
- Try different oils: Use different oils, such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil, to add unique flavors and textures to your croutons.
- Make them in advance: Make a batch of croutons ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Crouton Variations
Here are some crouton variations to try:
- Garlic and Herb Croutons: Mix in some minced garlic and dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a savory and aromatic crouton.
- Cheesy Croutons: Sprinkle some grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, over the bread cubes before toasting for a rich and creamy crouton.
- Spicy Croutons: Mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can make delicious croutons from sandwich bread that will elevate your salads, soups, and other dishes. Experiment with different seasonings and flavorings to find your favorite combinations and enjoy the crunch and flavor of homemade croutons.
What is the best type of bread to use for making croutons?
The best type of bread to use for making croutons is a day-old bread, preferably a crusty bread or a bread with some texture. Sandwich bread can also be used, but it’s best to let it sit out for a day to dry out a bit. This will help the bread to brown more evenly and give it a crunchier texture.
Avoid using fresh bread, as it will be too soft and may not hold its shape well when cubed. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as baguette, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread, to create unique flavor profiles.
How do I cube the bread for making croutons?
To cube the bread, start by cutting the bread into slices, about 1-2 inches thick. Then, cut each slice into cubes, depending on the size you prefer for your croutons. You can cut them into small cubes for a more delicate texture or larger cubes for a crunchier texture.
Make sure to cut the bread evenly, so that the croutons cook uniformly. You can also use a bread knife or a serrated knife to help you cut the bread into clean, even cubes.
What is the best way to season croutons?
The best way to season croutons is to use a combination of herbs and spices that complement the flavor of your dish. You can use dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, or spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or cumin. You can also add some grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, for an extra burst of flavor.
When seasoning the croutons, make sure to sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the bread cubes, so that each crouton is coated with flavor. You can also mix the seasonings into the bread cubes before baking for a more intense flavor.
How do I bake croutons in the oven?
To bake croutons in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the bread cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with seasonings. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
Make sure to check on the croutons halfway through the baking time, and shake the baking sheet to redistribute the croutons. This will help them cook evenly and prevent burning.
Can I make croutons in a skillet on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make croutons in a skillet on the stovetop. To do this, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and cook, stirring frequently, until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the heat and the type of bread.
Make sure to stir the croutons frequently, so that they cook evenly and don’t burn. You can also add some aromatics, such as garlic or onions, to the skillet for extra flavor.
How do I store croutons to keep them fresh?
To store croutons, let them cool completely on a paper towel-lined plate. Then, transfer them to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a plastic container. Store the croutons in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard.
Croutons can be stored for up to 3 days at room temperature, or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months, and simply thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to use them.
What are some creative ways to use croutons?
Croutons can be used in a variety of creative ways, such as adding them to salads, soups, or pasta dishes. You can also use them as a topping for casseroles or mac and cheese, or as a crunchy element in a charcuterie board.
You can also experiment with different flavors and seasonings to create unique crouton flavors, such as spicy croutons or herb-infused croutons. Additionally, you can use croutons as a crunchy coating for chicken or fish, or as a topping for roasted vegetables.