What are Sourdough Croutons?

Sourdough Croutons originate from the delightful world of homemade sourdough bread, where stale bread finds new life. Their popularity stems from their simplicity and versatility, making them a favorite among home cooks. With the rich flavor derived from stale bread, these crouton recipes are perfect as salad toppings or crunchy garnishes for soups.

Ingredients (with Servings)

This recipe for Sourdough Croutons serves 4, and can easily be scaled for larger groups!

• Main Ingredients (Serves 4):
• 4 cups of cubed stale sourdough bread
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• Seasoning Mixture:
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Optional Add-Ons:
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil)

Directions (Step-by-Step)

Prepare your delicious Sourdough Croutons in no time! The prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking takes roughly 15 minutes.

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed stale sourdough and olive oil. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle the garlic powder and dried thyme over the bread cubes. Mix well.
4. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Serving Size Adjustments (Scaling Table)

Adjust the recipe for different group sizes easily using the table below:

Recipe Variations

Get creative with your Sourdough Croutons by trying these variations:

• Vegetarian Variation: Substitute olive oil with vegetable broth for a lighter twist.
• Gluten-Free Variation: Use gluten-free bread to cater to dietary preferences.
• Seasonal Twist: Add seasonal herbs or spices to keep your recipe fresh year-round.

Serving Tips

Enhance your meals with these serving suggestions for Sourdough Croutons:

• Pair them with a vibrant salad or a warm soup for added texture.
• Consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
• Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will adore Sourdough Croutons for their convenience and flavor! They are easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy families or gourmet entertaining. Discover how to make croutons that enhance any meal with minimal effort!

Pro Tips

• Always preheat the oven to ensure even crisping of your croutons homemade.
• For extra flavor, infuse the olive oil with garlic before combining with the bread.
• Store leftover croutons in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.

Customizations

Modify your Sourdough Croutons for various tastes with these ideas:

• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles as a lighter salad topping.
• Kid-Friendly Option: Reduce spices and add mild cheese for a comforting touch.
• Herb-Infused Option: Experiment with different herbs based on seasonal availability.

Key Takeaways:

• Sourdough Croutons are a versatile way to use leftover bread.
• They can be customized to fit various dietary needs.
• Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, perfect for any meal.

FAQs

• How do I store leftover Sourdough Croutons? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread? Yes, but stale bread yields a better texture.
• What are some good recipes that use Sourdough Croutons? They are perfect for salads, soups, or as a crunchy topping on casseroles.
• Can I freeze Sourdough Croutons? Yes, freeze in a single layer and then transfer to a bag for long-term storage.
• What seasonings work best for Sourdough Croutons? Experiment with garlic powder, Italian herbs, or your favorite spice blends.