Soups & Stews > Soup & Stew Serving Suggestions > Bread Pairings > Sourdough
Toasted Sourdough Croutons for Soup
Enhance the texture and flavor of your soups and stews with homemade toasted sourdough croutons. These crispy, tangy croutons are a simple and delicious addition that adds a delightful crunch to every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 8 slices Sourdough Bread (day-old)
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Dried Herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Prepare the Bread
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the sourdough bread into 1/2-inch cubes. You can remove the crusts if desired, but leaving them on adds extra crunch.
Season and Toss
In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the bread is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Toast the Croutons
Spread the seasoned bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through to ensure even toasting. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve
Remove the croutons from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will crisp up further as they cool.
Store the cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Sprinkle the toasted sourdough croutons over your favorite soups and stews just before serving.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Other Considerations for Nutrition
These croutons are higher in carbohydrates and fat due to the bread and olive oil. Using whole wheat sourdough bread can increase the fiber content. Adjust portion sizes to manage calorie intake.
FAQ
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Can I use fresh sourdough bread?
Day-old or slightly stale sourdough bread works best for croutons as it has less moisture and will crisp up more effectively. Fresh bread can be used, but it may require a longer toasting time. -
Can I use different herbs and spices?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your croutons. Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a unique twist. -
How do I store the croutons?
Store the cooled croutons in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored croutons will stay crispy for up to a week.