Rustic Croutons with Vegan Fondue Recipe – American Special
Rustic Croutons with Vegan Fondue is a delightful appetizer that combines the comforting crunch of freshly baked croutons with a rich, creamy dip. The croutons are made from rustic bread, seasoned and baked to golden perfection, while the vegan fondue features a luscious blend of soaked cashews, white wine, and savory spices, creating a luxurious, dairy-free alternative. This indulgent pairing not only elevates your snacking experience but also adds a touch of sophistication to any gathering, making it a perfect choice for parties or cozy nights in. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures as you dip and savor each bite!
- Prep Time25 min
- Cook Time25 min
- Total Time50 min
For the Croutons:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (like sourdough or French bread)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegan White Wine Fondue:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 2 hours)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for extra flavor
Prepare the Croutons:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Spread the croutons in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Make the Vegan Fondue:
In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Pour the mixture into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and becomes bubbly (about 5-7 minutes). If it’s too thick, you can add a little more plant-based milk to reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Transfer the vegan fondue to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh herbs.
Serve the rustic croutons alongside the fondue for dipping.
Recipe Notes :
Bread Choice: Feel free to use any bread you prefer; stale bread works great for croutons.
Nutritional Yeast: This adds a cheesy flavor; adjust the amount to your taste.
Add-ins: You can add sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic to the fondue for extra flavor.
Storage: Leftover croutons can be stored in an airtight container for a few days, and the fondue can be refrigerated and reheated gently.
