How to make crackers: 11 recipes

Probably there is no such person who would never have tried crackers. However, few people thought about what benefits and harm they can bring to human health. The positive and negative properties of such a product largely depend on the composition and method of preparation. In order not to harm your body, you should understand the qualities of crackers and learn how to make it yourself. It is also important to know in which cases such a delicacy will be an excellent snack, and when it is better to refuse it.

What are crackers

Rusks are a product that is obtained from sliced ​​and dried bread of various kinds.

It is much easier to cook this appetizer from a slightly dried out, stained flour product. In this case, the base for crackers will not crumble when sliced. It also allows you to save the necessary shape of the workpieces.

If there is only fresh and crumbly bread, it is recommended to place it in the refrigerator before cutting, and at the same time, remove the bag or protective film from it. After several hours in a cold place, you can use the product for its intended purpose.

The shelf life of bread used to make crackers plays an important role. So, the product should not have an unpleasant odor or mold, as this can be hazardous to health.

When cutting the rolls, it is necessary to take into account that the finished crackers should be well dried from all sides, as well as the moment that they are ready to be eaten ready. If you have to cook them as an additive for mashed soup, you can make elongated crackers, it is recommended to make cubes in the form of cubes for chicken broth.

Selection of seasonings requires special attention. Most housewives prefer to use spice mixtures. But it is also possible to use one spice. Most often in such cases salt with pepper, garlic, paprika, etc. are used. To soak bread slices in such seasonings, you need to combine them with water, and then sprinkle each cracker with the spray solution using a spray bottle.

Chemical composition and calorie content

Such an appetizer is bread cut into equal slices, which are baked again in the oven or in a pan. The basis for crackers can be rye, wheat, you can also use rolls based on oat, pea flour.

These flour products are enriched with many vitamins and minerals. So, here you can find retinol, tocopherol, niacin, various B-group vitamins. In addition, crackers contain organic compounds such as fiber and starch. They also contain a whole list of minerals, including calcium with potassium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, iodine, zinc, selenium and others.

All of these valuable elements are involved in maintaining normal digestion. They help improve metabolism, replenish energy reserves, regulate the phospholipid metabolism in the liver. The lack of all these components negatively affects the activity of the intestine, the process of digestion of food. For this reason, many nutritionists recommend the use of crackers, which are much more useful, instead of fresh baking.

However, it must be remembered that such an appetizer is characterized by a rather high degree of calorie content, therefore, compliance with the dosages is required. This indicator depends on the recipe basis.For example, if sweet buns with raisins and chocolate were used to make crackers, therefore, these ingredients provide an increase in the energy value of the product and increase the number of calories in it. Such a delicacy will not be useful, especially if you use it during weight loss.

Brown bread rusks are lower in calories, unlike white varieties. They also have a low glycemic index, which is very important for people with diabetes. In addition, the black flour appetizer contains fewer simple carbohydrates and is characterized by a rich vitamin complex. This option is suitable for losing weight. 100 g contains 330 kcal. These crackers are not harmful, moreover, they enrich the human body with fiber, which improves the digestion of food. It should be borne in mind that it is impossible to lose weight only on such a product, despite the fact that it has a number of useful qualities. It is necessary to control the amount of crackers eaten, since there are a lot of calories in them.

A delicacy derived from white bread is less useful. Wheat flour base contains more simple carbohydrates, which lead to an increase in blood glucose. The calorific value of such a product ranges from 200 to 400 kcal per 100 g. These values ​​indicate that such crackers can be dangerous, since they lead to the appearance of fatty deposits.

Kinds

The classification of this product depends on valuable and harmful properties. Based on this, crackers are divided into simple and rich.

In the first case, rye and wheat flour are used. The water here is used a little less. First baked dough, which is distributed in special forms. After cooling, the workpiece should be cut into equal pieces. During drying, humidity should not exceed 10%. Pack the finished product in bags.

As for the crackers from the pastry, its useful characteristics are reduced due to the use of additional ingredients. To prepare such a base, white flour of the highest grade is taken. It may also contain sugar, fatty ingredients, pieces of fruit and other ingredients. The cooking process is the same as with the simple dough.

What are the benefits of crackers

Since the treat has a lightweight structure, it has more benefits for the stomach. Such a product is more easily absorbed by the body, normalizes the functioning of the intestine. Crackers are useful for older people with their ability to eliminate flatulence.

During the drying process, the structure of the snack changes, it becomes lighter for the stomach, which protects it from overload.

Breadcrumbs are characterized by a rich chemical composition. So, zinc with selenium, found in a product from brown bread, is able to protect the skin, B vitamins are responsible for the health of hair and nails.

Another useful property of crackers is that they help reduce the risk of cancer and diabetes.

When losing weight

Nutrition experts recommend that dieters use dried rye slices instead of rolls and bread. This is due to the fact that the cells of the human body are able to work normally only if they receive carbohydrates, which are the main energy source. Fresh produce contains a lot more of these elements than a slimming person can afford. Therefore, as an alternative, it is possible to consume crackers, that is, the number of dried slices is not proportional to the fresh bun. And, as you know, the last product stimulates the appetite, which leads to the fact that a person begins to eat in large quantities.

Rusks, in which all valuable substances are stored, are a hearty and at the same time useful addition to various dietary dishes.

During pregnancy

As for the benefits of this crispy goodness during the period of expectation of the baby and breastfeeding, there are some nuances.The future mother should think not only about her health, but also about how not to harm the health of the unborn child. In this case, you will have to abandon the purchased crackers with the taste of caviar, crab and various additives. It is also not recommended at this time to use products with raisins and other fillings.

When breastfeeding

During lactation, it is also unknown how the baby can react to the components that were used in the process of making such a treat. In this case, it should be borne in mind that some unscrupulous manufacturers use a stale base as a raw material for their products, which not only does not bring any benefit, but at the same time can cause unpleasant consequences.

The harm for the child lies not only in the development of diathesis, but also in the appearance of serious disorders in the digestive system.

It is allowed to use only crackers, prepared independently at home from a simple loaf. The ideal raw material will be bread cooked with your own hands. Such a basis will only need to be chopped into cubes and dried using an oven or on a stove. Some housewives to get crackers fried bread slices in a toaster, and then cut them into small pieces with a sharp knife.

For kids

Most parents love to give their children a variety of sweets and dangers, and this dried product is no exception. Especially often, the child first encounters breadcrumbs during teething.

Pediatricians recommend that you follow some rules. If we are talking about purchased products, some of them may contain protein, which causes an allergic reaction in the baby. Such a treat is allowed for use in childhood only after a year. If the child has intolerance to gluten or another component that is part of the product, you will have to abandon it.

In addition, store crackers contain many aromatic substances, flavor enhancers, sugar and various other additives. You can give such a treat to a child only after three years.

Rusks, which contain only flour, water, salt and yeast, can be given offspring without fear. It is best to cook such a delicacy at home, because only in this case you can be sure of the benefits and safety of the prepared treat.

Often, with many painful conditions, they buy this product. However, you need to know that there are pathologies in which you should not include such a dish in the diet. You also need to know all the properties of such a product and use it taking into account the recommendations of specialists.

With gastritis and ulcer

Before buying crackers, you need to exclude options containing flavors and flavor enhancers, as well as some spices with spices. Instead, for these diseases, only crackers are allowed to eat without any additives. The daily rate of such a product should not exceed 200 g. Do not consume them dryly, but combine with a light side dish or drink with water. With a different form of gastritis, wheat crackers are recommended.

With pancreatitis

This disease involves the rejection of many products, as for dried products, you can only use wheat products. Rusks made from butter, rye and spicy raw materials are prohibited. Such a delicacy can be consumed with kefir, tea, used as an additive to soups and broths. Doctors are allowed to take such food only after two weeks have passed since the exacerbation, so as not to damage the inflamed mucous organ.

With diabetes

It is forbidden to use store crackers for this disease, as they contain dangerous preservatives and salts, because of which the patient develops swelling, and the heart and urinary system deteriorate. These organs are more susceptible to negative effects due to impaired blood glucose levels.

Experts note that the most safe and healthy are rye crackers made from whole grain and oat products.Such products are characterized by low glycemic indices and do not lead to an increase in the level of sugar in the body.

What is more useful: fresh bread or crackers

Numerous studies have shown that rusks are characterized by the highest percentage of usefulness compared to fresh pastries. Moreover, soft and fresh flour products are prohibited for use in the initial stages of digestive tract diseases.

Crackers are considered more beneficial due to some properties, such as a longer shelf life, as well as the ability to eliminate bloating. Such a homemade treat will help restore the digestive tract after poisoning, as it is easily digested and does not burden the stomach.

Experts advise to refuse flour products, various pastries and instead include daily crackers in your diet, which will become a light and at the same time hearty snack.

How to cook crackers at home

To date, there are many options for making healthy crackers with your own hands. And for this, special devices are not required at all. Cooking crackers at home involves obtaining a finished product that is tasty, safe and healthy, since in this case you can control the addition of spices and various auxiliary components.

In the oven

With the help of the oven, you can cook crackers, which turn out fragrant and crispy. To do this, you need yesterday’s white roll or rye loaf, 4 tbsp. tomato paste and the same amount of olive oil, as well as herbs and seasonings as you wish.

First you need to prepare a dressing by combining pasta, oil and spices. After that, cut the bakery product into pieces and grease with the resulting mixture. Finished slices can only be spread on a baking sheet and sent to the preheated oven for half an hour.

In the pan

Very easy to prepare rye crackers. You just need to cut a black loaf of bread into small cubes. Arrange the resulting pieces in a preheated pan and fry over moderate heat, stirring occasionally. After 10 minutes, add garlic, cheese, dried herbs and various spices to taste. After this, crackers cook the same amount of time.

Put finished products on paper towels for several minutes. When the crispy slices have cooled, you can enjoy the aromatic taste of crackers.

In the microwave

It is very easy to cook dried croutons in the microwave. To do this, you will need one loaf, a little greens, a pinch of salt and 2 tbsp. vegetable oil. To begin the process of making crackers should be a combination of spices and salt. Next, cut the bread into thin slices, while the crust is better to remove with a knife. After that, mix the chopped workpieces with seasonings in a bowl. Now pour a small spoonful of oil on the bottom of the baking dish and evenly distribute it on the bottom of the dish. Put croutons here and mix them with a fork so that the oil is absorbed into the bread base. Repeat such manipulations with the remaining amount of vegetable oil, pouring it on the bottom of the pan, and not on the flour product.

Then put the future crackers in a dish suitable for a microwave oven, and send for drying for a couple of minutes, while turning on the maximum power on the device.

After two minutes, mix the contents and send for the same amount of time. Repeat the procedure until crackers begin to tap. After that, dry the product for several more minutes so that it acquires the desired blush.

White bread

Of the ingredients you will need 1/2 bread, garlic, 4 tbsp. vegetable oil, salt and spices to taste.

Cut the flour base into small pieces and place in a container of suitable size; you can use a regular bag for this. Add chopped garlic, oil, spices, dried herbs to this, red pepper can be used to make hot crackers. Now you need to close the dishes with the workpieces and shake it until all components are completely distributed.

Pour the resulting cubes onto a baking sheet, which is then sent to the oven, preheated to 200 degrees.Stir the contents periodically. This is necessary so that the croutons turn out to be rosy on all sides. The cooking time in this case depends on personal taste preferences.

From brown bread

Another option for an ideal snack is to make brown bread crackers. In this case, it is necessary to prepare 700 g of black bread and salt with spices to taste.

First cut the loaf into two parts and get rid of all the crusts. After that, cut future breadcrumbs into cubes or sticks from the remaining bread. Now lay out the blanks on the form, mix with spices and salt.

Next, turn on the oven and reheat to maximum temperature. Baking tray with breadcrumbs send to the oven, where to set the temperature no more than 60 degrees. The device door is recommended to be left ajar. This will allow for a suitable atmosphere. Since bread contains a lot of moisture, it should go out during the drying process. Two hours later, take the treat out of the oven. After cooling, you can enjoy aromatic crackers.

With garlic

Cooking garlic crackers at home does not take much time. You can do this at home faster than heading for the store. In addition, products created with their own hands will be natural, without the use of aromatic substances and various harmful additives. Such croutons are suitable for tea, beer, and are also used for inclusion in salads.

So, of the ingredients you need 250 g of bread, a few garlic cloves, 60 ml of olive oil, a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.

First you need to remove the crust of bread, and then cut it into cubes or whetstones. Next, peel the garlic and crush it. In a small bowl, mix the garlic mass, as well as all the spices and squeeze the olive. While the oven is warming up to 200 degrees, put the bread blanks in the resulting sauce. At the same time, thoroughly mix future crackers with garlic mixture. After that, ready-made pieces are evenly distributed on a baking sheet and sent to the oven for 15-20 minutes.

Seasoned

Crispy crackers with spices are also very easy to make. To do this, you need half the bread, 2 tbsp. seasonings “hops-suneli” and vegetable oil, as well as salt to taste.

To get such crackers, you must first cut the bread into small cubes. Then turn on the oven. While it is warming up, add spices and salt to the bread preparations. Mix all the ingredients well. Then add oil and mix again. Put the prepared cubes on a baking sheet and send for drying in the oven for half an hour at 180 degrees. During this time, it is necessary to mix croutons 2-3 times.

With cheese

To prepare a flavored cheese snack you will need 400 g of bread, 3-4 tbsp. oil, 1 tsp dried garlic, the same amount of a mixture of herbs, sweet paprika, salt and 50 g of cheese.

Loaf of bread cut into small cubes. To do this, it is best to use slightly dried products to make crackers smooth. Combine oil, spices and salt in a separate bowl. When adding salt, you need to consider that cheese is a salty product, in addition, most of the seasonings used for this also contain this component. The composition of spices can be adjusted, taking into account the taste preferences of households.

Put the sliced ​​bread in a bag or dish with a lid, mix with the finished mixture and mix so that the spices are distributed over the bread cubes.

Put the prepared crackers on a baking sheet covered with parchment. Now send the workpieces to the oven, preheated to 150 degrees. With periodic stirring, baking lasts no more than 20 minutes until they dry out, become solid and rosy. Cheese should be prepared at this time. Grate it and sprinkle crackers.After that, hold the pan in the oven for another 5 minutes at 220 degrees until the cheese is melted.

For Caesar Salad

To season the dish with crackers, you need to cut a loaf of bread into pieces 1–2 cm in size. Put the obtained slices on a baking dish, sprinkle with a little black pepper, and can also be seasoned with paprika. Next, send the workpieces to the oven at a temperature of 180 degrees.

You can also cook them on the stove using a conventional pan without adding oil. The fire should be medium. Periodically, crackers should be turned over so that they are evenly dried and browned, otherwise they will not crackle in the finished dish. Add them to the salad last, before serving.

For soup

Many soups are served and eaten with breadcrumbs. They are able to complement and emphasize the taste of such first courses. Serve them better in a separate bowl so that they do not soak immediately.

To make croutons, you will need three pieces of bread, 10 g of butter, 10 ml of vegetable oil, 3-4 cloves of garlic and salt to taste.

In a frying pan, you need to melt the butter, add the vegetable product to it, then turn on the crushed garlic here and fry until dark. Then get it out of the oil. In the resulting garlic mass put the diced bread and fry with periodic stirring. Croutons lightly salt to taste, after which they can be used as food.

For beer

To prepare an appetizer for such an alcoholic drink, it is enough to have 1/2 bread at home, 50 ml of vegetable oil, 1 tbsp. greens and salt to taste.

First you need to cut the flour product. After that, in a small bowl combine the oil (it is better to use olive), spices and salt. Fans of hot can add a pinch of black pepper or red paprika. Pour bread slices into the mixture. Then mix the ingredients so that each piece is soaked in sauce. Now send blanks for crackers to the oven, preheated to 220 degrees, for 15-20 minutes.

How to store homemade crackers

It should be noted that products made from bread have the longest shelf life, for which flour of the highest and first grades, or products that do not contain fat, was used.

Humidity should not exceed 75 percent. In conditions of dampness, the snack starts to sour and soak. Dry air also affects the quality of crackers. This leads to the fact that they become stiff and brittle.

Some housewives use special bread bins or containers to store crackers. It is not recommended to store them in plastic bags, as the product will not be able to "breathe". You can use cans from under baby food for this.

Contraindications and harm crackers

This snack is characterized by many useful properties, but there are some limitations. This is due to the fact that the purchased product contains various preservatives and artificial additives.

Uncontrolled use of such a treat can lead to an increase in body weight, the development of congestion in the intestines, and an exacerbation of an ulcer.

Crackers are contraindicated in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract during an exacerbation, in chronic intestinal pathologies. It should be noted that products from black bread are highly acidic, which can be irritating to the gastric mucosa. With frequent heartburn, you should not use such a product in food. If a person often encounters such an ailment, he is recommended to cook the simplest crackers at home.

Photo crackers