I can’t believe I’m writing this, but a trip down the aisle of a megamart has left me no choice. There were dozens of varieties of croutons. All nicely boxed up, all manufactured with enough “additives” to let them last for years. They tend to be rock hard with distinctively chemical tastes. For example, if they are “onion” or “garlic” those boxy scents simply do not ring true to your palette.

The solution? Just make your own. It’s wonderfully simple and you have the benefit of controlling flavor and texture. The basic flavoring here is garlic, but you can add onion, chili powder, or herbs. For texture, it’s really a matter of your preference and what uses you have in mind. Do you like your croutons soft in your Caesar Salad, then bake until you finger begins to feel some resistance. Want them crispy for a soup, then bake away until they are fully browned.

Seriously, those boxes on the shelves may say croutons, but they are not these are.

When making these, try to get fresh French bread. That megamart probably comes with a bakery that does turn out fresh bread. Look for a loaf still warm from the oven.

Or, go the next step. I make my own sourdough bread and I will modestly say it is wonderful. My bread is an expected contribution to any dinner party we attend, and I am delighted that so many people enjoy it. Like Carnegie Hall, good bread is achieve with practice. With that practice and perhaps a class or two, you can make your own bread and relish in the flavors that truly reflect your home. Talk about terroir!

Really Simple Homemade Croutons

Yield: 3 cups

Ingredients:

1 clove of garlic, smashed
Onions, chili powder, or herbs, optionally
3 tablespoons butter, softened
3 cups of diced French bread, about ¼ by ¼ by ½ inches

Preparation:

Preheat an oven to 350°F. Cover a half sheet pan with aluminum foil.

Place the garlic, butter, and any optional ingredients in a 5-cup glass bowl and microwave until the butter is almost fully melted, about 45 to 75 seconds. Stir to complete the melting of the butter and to make sure the garlic flavor is thoroughly infused.

Add the French bread to the bowl and gentle stir with a spoon to completely coat each piece of bread. Spread the croutons on the foil. Bake until you achieve the level of doneness you desire.

Source: Brian O’Rourke