Croutons are a great way to use up bread that is going stale or that you're worried will mold before you can eat it. I often use butter when making them to eat right away, but find that pure olive oil is better for longer term storage (a couple weeks at room temperature in a sealed container). Try this out and you might never buy croutons again.

Spiced Croutons

Author
Christian Leue
Servings
Makes 3 cups
Category
Snack

Ingredients

  • 3 cups bread (pretty much any kind will work), cut into cubes
  • Olive oil
  • Your favorite spice, I used Riviera Herbs, Luberon N4 is also perfect. See below for more ideas
  • Salt, to taste

Directions

  1. Place the bread cubes in a single layer in a large skillet over medium high heat. Toast, stirring regularly, until they begin to crisp up and brown lightly.
  2. Begin adding olive oil a tablespoon or two at a time, stirring well to coat and allowing it to absorb into the bread. They are done when they are evenly crisp and brown and lightly shiny (you'll probably want to taste a few to check as you cook). 
  3. Remove the croutons from the heat and stir in your favorite spice while they are still hot. I used Riviera Herbs (about 1 1/2 teaspoons) in this preparation. Or try Vadouvan N28, Amber N2, Noga N17, or D'Vora for starters, but the sky really is the limit. Use the blend or single spice that's been sitting in your cabinet and give it a new crispy life!
  4. Taste for salt and add if you want to. Allow the croutons to cool uncovered to release any residual moisture, then store in an air-tight container for up to two weeks (if you can keep yourself from eating them all by then).

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