1/2 loaf French bread
1 tsp. minced basil (fresh is best)
2 cloves minced garlic
1 stick shortening (1/2 butter, 1/2 butter)

Preheat oven to 275 degrees.

Simmer butter, basil and garlic in saucepan. Cube French bread and place in roasting pan. Pour butter mixture over bread, toss. Cook until golden brown and very crunchy.

Bread should be stale. Store croutons in tightly sealed plastic containers.