Crooked River's Homemade Croutons

Photo courtesy Taste of Home

    Just 8 minutes (4 miles) from downtown Princeton, on the edge of Patoka, sets a totally redone eatery that has the cozy feel of a cabin near the woods. Named from the curvy Patoka river it sets near, Crooked River offers good simple food in healthy portions at reasonable prices.
   When asked what's the most popular dish on the menu, owner Kris Shaefer replied with two items, the catfish and the Roco burger.  That name fits this big 8 oz. BLT cheeseburger served on garlic buttered Texas Toast.
   They use fresh local catfish that is hand battered in a mix of flour, cornmeal and very secret spices. It's a very light breading and the fish isn't overcooked and too crunchy, so that the flaky tenderness of the catfish comes through.
  The recipe that Crooked River shared with me is for croutons. They're very easy and good to have on hand.

Homemade Croutons
Ingredients:
6-8 bread heals
parsley
garlic
salt
Italian seasoning

Preparation:
Tear bread into large pieces. Fry until golden brown. Place on large baking sheet and sprinkle with garlic and spices. Makes 2 quarts. Recipe can easily be cut in halves or quarters. Use one loaf for a gallon.

Related articles

• Parmesan Garlic Bread Croutons
• Kale Caesar Salad
• Cauliflower Soup with Bacon and Homemade Croutons
• Roasted Garlic Parmesan Herb Croutons