Sourdough Croutons

How to Make Perfect Sourdough Croutons: A Simple Recipe

If you're a fan of sourdough bread, then you already know how the tangy flavor and airy texture make it the perfect base for a variety of dishes. But did you know that you can turn this beloved bread into crispy, golden croutons that add a whole new layer of flavor to your salads, soups, and even snacking? In this blog post, I'll walk you through a simple and tasty recipe for making your own homemade sourdough croutons.

Why Choose Sourdough for Croutons?

Sourdough bread has a naturally tangy flavor that comes from its fermentation process. This gives your croutons an added complexity that regular bread croutons just can't match. The slightly chewy, hearty texture of sourdough also holds up well to the baking process, making them crispy on the outside while still tender on the inside. Perfect for adding flavor and crunch to any dish!

Ingredients:

1 loaf of sourdough bread (preferably day-old or slightly stale)
3-4 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
(Optional) 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced)
(Optional) 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-ins:

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) after baking for a pop of color and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for getting the croutons crispy without burning them.

2. Slice the Sourdough Bread:

Take your sourdough loaf and slice it into bite-sized cubes. The size of the cubes can vary depending on your preference, but generally, 1-inch cubes work well. If your sourdough is a bit stale, it’s actually perfect for croutons because it will hold its shape when baking.

3. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings:

Place the sourdough cubes into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the cubes and toss to coat evenly. Add optional herbs, salt and pepper. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking—this is where you can get creative! For a cheesy twist, you can sprinkle in some grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese.

4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:

Spread the seasoned sourdough cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Try not to overcrowd the pan, as this will prevent them from crisping up properly.

5. Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, tossing the croutons halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time—croutons can go from perfectly crispy to overdone in a matter of minutes!

Note: The size you choose will determine how long it takes to get them crispy. Just keep an eye on them and test their crunchiness.

6. Cool and Serve:

Once the croutons are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They’ll continue to crisp up as they cool. Now they’re ready to be used!

How to Use Sourdough Croutons

In Salads: Toss them into a fresh salad for extra crunch and flavor. They pair especially well with hearty salads, like Caesar.
In Soups: Add a handful of croutons to your favorite soup, like tomato or butternut squash, for some texture and flavor.
As a Snack: Craving something savory? Grab a handful of these croutons for a simple, crunchy snack.
On Pasta: Sprinkle croutons over pasta dishes for an added crunch and burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Sourdough Croutons:

Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread may be too soft for croutons. Stale bread holds up better when baking, resulting in a crisper texture.
Make Ahead: You can make these croutons ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to a month.
Season to Taste: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices or seasonings. For instance, adding smoked paprika or fresh herbs after baking can bring new flavors to the table.

Final Thoughts

Homemade sourdough croutons are easy to make and so much better than store-bought options. They’re versatile, customizable, and the perfect way to use up leftover sourdough bread. Plus, they can add the perfect finishing touch to so many dishes. Try this recipe next time you’re looking to elevate your meal with a crunchy, flavorful addition. Enjoy!