The Forktionary Angle
"The word "crouton" comes from the French "croûton," a diminutive of "croûte," meaning crust. Historically, they were a way to repurpose stale bread."
Definition
Small, seasoned pieces of toasted or re-baked bread, typically added to salads or soups for texture and flavor.
Flavor Profile
The primary flavor notes for Croutons are:
Chef’s Secret
For exceptionally flavorful and crispy homemade croutons, use slightly stale artisanal bread, toss with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs, then bake slowly at a lower temperature until golden brown.
Best Substitutes
Toasted nuts
Crispy fried onions
Crumbled tortilla chips
Buying Guide
Check for freshness and a good "best by" date. Look for whole, evenly sized pieces with good seasoning.