Croutons are crispy, delicious additions to salads, soups, and even as a tasty snack. They add a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor to any dish. While you can buy croutons from the store, making them at home is not only cheaper but also allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. In this article, we will discuss how to make croutons from bread in an air fryer, using a quick and easy method.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin making croutons, gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need a loaf of bread, preferably a day or two old, as stale bread works best for this recipe. Choose a bread type that you enjoy, such as French bread or sourdough, as it will greatly impact the final taste of your croutons. Other essential ingredients include olive oil, salt, and any additional seasonings or herbs you might like to add, such as garlic powder, dried oregano, or Parmesan cheese.
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to around 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your croutons cook evenly and become crispy without burning.
2. Slice the Bread
Take your loaf of bread and slice it into cubes or bite-sized pieces. You can be as creative as you want with the size and shape of the croutons. For a traditional crouton look, cut the bread into cubes of approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) on each side.
3. Season the Bread
Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Use enough oil to lightly coat each piece, ensuring that the seasonings adhere well. Season with salt and any other desired herbs or spices. Toss the bread cubes gently to distribute the oil and seasonings evenly.
Air Frying Process
4. Load Your Air Fryer Basket
Once your air fryer has preheated, carefully transfer the seasoned bread cubes into the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer to allow for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to unevenly cooked croutons.
5. Air Fry the Croutons
Set your air fryer to cook at 350°F (175°C) and timer for 10 minutes. Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on your croutons as they cook. Shake the basket or gently toss the croutons halfway through the cooking time to ensure all sides brown evenly.
6. Check for Crispiness
After the initial 10 minutes, check the croutons’ crispiness. You can remove some and give them a taste test to determine if they need more time. If the croutons are not as crispy as desired, continue cooking them in two to three-minute increments until they reach the desired level of crunchiness.
Extra Tips
1. Experiment with Flavors
The basic croutons recipe outlined above provides a great foundation, but don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with flavors. You can try different seasonings like paprika, dried thyme, or even chili powder for a spicy kick. Additionally, adding grated Parmesan cheese before air frying can give your croutons a cheesy twist.
2. Opt for Healthy Alternatives
If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute whole-grain bread for white bread. Whole-grain bread adds extra fiber and nutrients to your croutons. You may also use heart-healthy oils like avocado oil or coconut oil instead of olive oil.
3. Storage and Shelf Life
Store your homemade croutons in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and crispy for up to two weeks, but try to use them within a week for the best taste and texture. Keep them away from moisture and humidity to maintain their crunchiness.
4. Repurposing Stale Croutons
If your croutons lose their crispness over time, don’t worry! You can easily revive them in your air fryer. Simply reheat them at a lower temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) for a few minutes until they become crunchy again.
Conclusion
Making croutons from bread in an air fryer is a quick and easy method that yields delectable results. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy homemade croutons with your favorite seasonings and tailor them to suit your taste preferences. So, the next time you have stale bread lying around, don’t throw it away. Transform it into crispy, flavorful croutons that will elevate your salads, soups, or snacks to new heights.