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Crouton Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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crouton

[หˆkruหtษ’n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food, salad

A crouton is a small piece of toasted or fried bread that is often used as a garnish for soups and salads. They are usually seasoned, providing additional flavor and texture to the dish. Croutons can vary in size and are commonly made from leftover bread. They can be found in various cuisines and are a popular addition to caesar salads or as a topping on creamy soups.

Synonyms

bread crisps, bread cubes, toasted bread.

Examples of usage

  • I added croutons to my salad for extra crunch.
  • The tomato soup was topped with crunchy garlic croutons.
  • Homemade croutons can elevate your dish significantly.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary History

  • In ancient times, even before croutons became a thing, stale bread was used to add texture to meals.
  • Classic French cuisine featured croutons as a part of soups, enhancing the dish with flavor and contrast in texture.

Nutrition

  • Croutons can add flavor and crunch, but they are often high in calories and can contain preservatives.
  • Whole grain croutons can provide more nutrition than regular white bread croutons, offering fiber and vitamins.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, croutons are a staple in various dishes, symbolizing the resourcefulness of using leftover bread.
  • Croutons can vary widely in flavor, from garlic to cheese, reflecting regional tastes and ingredients.

Bye Bye Bread

  • The transition from stale bread to delightful croutons showcases how food waste can turn into gourmet additions.
  • Many chefs use leftover bread from meals creatively, turning it into croutons to minimize waste.

Origin of 'crouton'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has French origins, coming from 'croรปte' which means 'crust' or 'slice of bread'.
  • While it became popular in Europe, its modern usage grew significantly in the United States in the 20th century.

The word 'crouton' is derived from the French word 'croรปton', which is a diminutive form of 'croรปte', meaning 'crust'. The term began appearing in English in the early 19th century, reflecting the popularity of French cuisine during that time. In its original form in French, a 'croรปte' referred to the crust of bread, and over time, it evolved to signify small pieces of toasted bread added to soups and salads. As culinary practices spread and evolved, croutons became a staple in various cuisines worldwide, often customized with different seasonings and types of bread, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,190, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.