How to make Seasoned Sourdough Croutons
Do you have left over sourdough heels? Or maybe even a loaf that did not rise like you would have liked? Make it into seasoned sourdough croutons!
As I learn how to work with my sourdough starter there are perfect loaves, and there have been failed loaves. Or shall I say opportunities to get creative and repurpose loaves that were not so perfect. And lately, I cant seem to get my loaves to rise – I keep getting these flat and UFO shaped loaves. I think it may be the warmer weather as we come into Summer and I am letting my loaves proof too much… or not enough?
With the loaves that did not rise well and are a little more dense, I am making into seasoned croutons! Not only is it an easy way to make use of these loaves, but they make salads more exciting and are a good snack to have around.
All the tools needed for this recipe is a cutting board, good bread knife, a bowl, and a pan. First, preheat oven to 350F. Next, assemble the ingredients, which are somewhat discretionary and could be edited depending on taste or what you intend to pair your croutons with (think different salads, soups, or just fun snack flavors). My classic, go-to seasonings for these croutons are salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion salt, paprika.
How to make Seasoned Sourdough Croutons
- Preheat oven to 350F
- Slice sourdough loaf into thick slices, next cut slices into 1″ strips, and tear into smaller bite sized pieces
- Toss torn pieces in bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika
- Lay seasoned sourdough evenly on a sheet pan and bake for 20-25 mins, or until golden brown
From there, cut your loaf first into thick slices, then cut each slice into 1″ strips. Next, cut or tear the strips into small but similarly sized chunks to ensure even cooking amongst the batch. After cutting your slices into strips, I prefer tearing the bread instead of cutting it. You will get a rustic look and more nooks and crannies that dressing can work its way into. In the interest of time, I did cut my bread when photographing for this post.
Once you have cut or torn your bread up into bite size chunks, put them in a large bowl you can mix in. From here you will add the olive oil, salt pepper, onion salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Once all the seasonings are added, toss, and taste. Adjust seasonings as needed depending on preference.
Once you have seasoned your croutons, put them out in a single layer on a cooking sheet. Lay them out evenly over the surface of the pan. Adjust so that the largest surface area is on the pan to get as toasty as possible. Then place in the oven to cook for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Now that you have your toasty, crunchy croutons allow them to cool before using for a salad to avoid any wilting. These can also be used in soups or as a snack!
