Best way to make croutons for soup?

[FelixFelix]

I've made a spiced carrot and lentil soup for tea. We have got half an unsliced white crusty bloomer left over which is past its best. I'd like to make croutons but they always come out a bit rubbish. I usually slice bread in to chunks then fry in a bit of garlic butter with salt and pepper.

Anyone really good at it? Tell me your secrets.

I would chop up into chunky pieces and drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs and garlic (if you like) and then oven roast on high heat for between 5 - 10 minutes (depending on your oven).

Thanks I will do them in the oven this time. They never turn out right when I fry them in a pan.

I do mine in the microwave :)

Cube bread, drizzle with oil and toss. Add salt, pepper, oregano and fennel seeds.

Microwave uncovered for a minute at a time tossing well in between, shorten the time as they get close to being crispy.

In the microwave?

Yup, my dad taught me! They are so scrummy and quick!

You've just opened up a world of crouton possibilities

I make them in the oven, but on a low temp so they dry out and are harder/crunchier.

I do a big batch in the oven when i'm cooking a roast. Lots of oil, non-stick tray and shake every 5-10 minutes. Do a big jar full and have then with soup and salad all well.

I've got loads of bread so can I use it all up then keep them in an airtight container? How long do you reckon they will keep for?