Garlic Rosemary Croutons

If you're anything like me, at the end of the week you probably end up with a dry heel of bread that only soup can save. But what if you dont feel like soup!?! Well... You can make your own croutons =)

Ingredients:
dry heel of bread (when cubed is roughly 1 cup)
2 tbsp butter or olive oil (or both, hehe)
1/2 tsp powdered garlic (granlated will work too)
1/2 tsp powdered rosemary (i havent tried dried sprigs, but im sure they'd also work)

1. Slice the bread into small cubes, approx. 3/4 inch by 3/4 inch.
2. In a fry pan heat butter/olive oil over low till its melted, but not bubbling.
3. Toss in bread cubes and mix around till they are lightly coated.
4. Sprinkle on evenly the garlic powder and rosemary powder and mix around.
5. Raise heat to medium, you will hear the butter/oil start to sizzle a little.
6. Continue to stir and toss cubes around letting them sizzle and brown a bit on the sides (approx. 5 min, careful not to burn)
7. Once cubes are as dark as you want them turn heat down to low and let them sit for a little to dry out a bit more, stirring occasionally.

The best part about making your own is that when you use them right away they are all crunchy and warm. MMmmm! Feel free to experiment with your own favorite spices/herbs. I have a feeling Marjoram, Paprika, Sage and Parsley would also be very good.

It is best to use these right away, but if you need to save them put them in an airtight container and use within 1 week or freeze up to 6 months.