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Cheesy Herb Croutons

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  1. Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil and a small piece of butter over medium heat. The butter will add flavor and help the croutons brown nicely.
  2. Add the Bread Mixture: Once the oil is hot, add the coated bread cubes to the skillet. Spread them out evenly, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  3. Cook Until Golden: Cook the croutons for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. The goal is to achieve a crispy texture.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

  1. Add Cheese: Once the croutons are golden and crispy, sprinkle the grated cheese over them.
  2. Cover to Melt: To help the cheese melt evenly, cover the skillet with a lid for a couple of minutes. This will trap the heat and steam, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Final Touches: Once the cheese is melted, remove the croutons from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  2. Enjoy: These cheesy croutons can be enjoyed on their own or used as a topping for salads, soups, or pasta dishes.

Cooking Tips

  • Use Any Bread: While stale bread works best, you can use fresh bread as well. Just be mindful that it may not crisp up as much.
  • Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme to customize the flavor of your croutons.
  • Cheese Choices: Try different cheeses for various flavor profiles; a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella is particularly delicious.
  • Avoid Soggy Croutons: Make sure the bread is well-coated but not overly saturated with the egg mixture to prevent sogginess.

Storage

  • Short-term Storage: Store any leftover croutons in anat room temperature for up to 3 days. They may lose some crispness over time.
  • Long-term Storage: For longer storage, you can freeze the croutons. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

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