GARLIC CROUTONS

Garlic has many culinary uses. The cloves are separated, peeled and then used whole, or chopped or crushed. If the garlic is old, be sure to remove the bitter ‘germ’ from the centre of the clove. The easiest way to crush garlic is to place a clove on a board and, using the flat side of a small knife, press down firmly until you have squashed it to a pulp. Sprinkle a little salt on the clove to help the knife grip. Garlic crushers are fine, but some say that crushing the garlic this way gives it a bitter taste. The more finely the garlic is crushed, the stronger it will taste in the dish, but slow oven-baking tends to mellow the flavour.

Ingredients

• Recipe makes 1 1/2 cups croutons
• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 1 clove garlic , minced
• 3 ¾ inch thick slices French Bread , cut into cubes

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large saute pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in garlic; cook and stir for 1 minute. Add bread cubes, and toss to coat. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15 minutes, or until crisp and dry. Check frequently to prevent burning. Cool.