Ditch those bland, store-bought croutons! If you’re a fan of big, bold flavours, you need to try these za’atar croutons. They’re a burst of tangy herbs and spices so good, you’ll want to sprinkle them on everything. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make, especially when you’ve got leftover bread on hand. Get ready to transform your salads, soups, and snack game forever!
😋 Why I love this recipe!
Because it’s incredibly simple and bursting with the tangy, herby goodness of Za’atar! Whether you’re topping a vibrant salad or adding a crunch to a creamy soup, these croutons take your meal to the next level. The best part? You can make a delicious batch whenever you have leftover bread, ensuring you always have this tasty, versatile ingredient on hand. Trust me, once you try these Za’atar croutons, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
🌱 What are Za’atar Croutons
Za’atar croutons are a delicious twist on the classic crouton, infused with the vibrant flavours of the Middle East. Za’atar itself is a beloved spice blend featuring herbs like thyme and oregano, tangy sumac, and nutty sesame seeds. These croutons transform humble bread into a burst of flavour, adding a unique depth and texture to salads, soups, or even as a standalone snack.
📝 Ingredient notes
- Bread: Use whatever bread you have on hand – fresh or stale both work well for croutons. Stale bread soaks up flavours wonderfully and gets extra crispy, but fresh bread is fine too! Keep an eye on stale bread, it may cook a bit faster.
- Olive Oil: This heart-healthy fat helps the bread crisp up and carries the delicious Za’atar flavours. For a flavour variation, try avocado oil or infused olive oils like garlic or chilli.
- Za’atar Mix: The star of the show! This vibrant Middle Eastern spice blend adds tangy, herbaceous, and nutty notes. You can find it pre-mixed in many supermarkets or easily make your own.
🥖How to make Za’atar Croutons
- Prepare your bread: Cut your chosen bread (stale bread works perfectly!) into approximately 2.5cm (1 inch) cubes. Aim for a consistent size to ensure even browning.
- Arrange for baking: Spread the bread cubes evenly across a baking tray. Ensure they have some space between them to promote crispiness.
- Season generously: Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the bread cubes. Sprinkle the Za’atar liberally, ensuring an even coating and a sprinkling of salt. Thoroughly mix with your hands, making sure every cube is well-seasoned.
- Bake to perfection: Place the baking tray in a preheated oven set to 180C (350F). Bake for approximately 14 minutes, or until the croutons achieve a beautiful golden brown colour. Watch out, as they can burn quickly in the final minutes of baking.
- Cool and crisp: Remove the croutons from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking tray. As they cool, they will become even crispier. They are great on salads, soups or just on their own like crips!
💡 Tips for getting it right!
- Adjust Za’atar to taste: Love za’atar? Feel free to add more for an extra flavour boost. Prefer it milder? Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your liking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Ensure your croutons have a bit of space on the baking tray for optimal crispiness. Overcrowding them can lead to steaming instead of browning.
🎨 Potential variations
- Spiced Za’atar Croutons: Add a pinch of chilli flakes or smoked paprika along with the Za’atar for a touch of heat.
- Garlic Herb Za’atar Croutons: Mix a bit of garlic powder or finely minced fresh garlic into the olive oil before drizzling it over the bread. This adds an extra layer of savoury goodness.
🤔 Frequently asked questions
Can I use gluten-free bread for Za’atar Croutons?
Absolutely! Simply substitute your favourite gluten-free bread for a delicious and allergy-friendly version of these croutons.
How long do Za’atar Croutons last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Za’atar Croutons retain their optimal crunch for up to a week.
I don’t have Za’atar, what can I use instead?
If you don’t have Za’atar, try a mix of dried thyme, oregano, and a pinch of dried marjoram. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavour element.
My Za’atar croutons are a little soft, what can I do?
If your croutons seem a bit soft, pop them back into the oven or air fryer for a few extra minutes until they reach the desired crispiness.
Za’atar Croutons
Equipment
Ingredients
- 300g loaf Bread Whatever you have around – I used a half size baguette from Lidl
- 3 tbsp Olive oil Adjust according to amount of bread
- 2 tbsp Za’atar mix Adjust according to bread and taste
Instructions
- Cut bread: Cut bread into 2.5cm (1-inch) cubes.
- Arrange: Spread cubes evenly on a baking tray.
- Season: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with Za'atar, and mix well with hands.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180C (350F) for 14 minutes, or until golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Cool: Let cool completely on the baking tray for extra crispiness.
Notes
- Stale or fresh bread is fine for this
- Adjust the amount of Za’atar to your taste preference.
- Store in an airtight container for optimal freshness.