While making sandwiches or bread rolls, many of us cut off the bread crusts and throw them away because they feel hard or children refuse to eat them. However, these leftover bread edges can actually be quite useful in the kitchen. At a time when food prices are rising and food waste is a serious concern, making the most of every ingredient—even bread crusts—makes a lot of sense.

If you enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and want to reduce unnecessary food waste, here are some easy and practical ways to reuse leftover bread edges instead of discarding them.

1. Make Crispy Bread Croutons at Home

Bread edges can be turned into crunchy croutons in no time. Cut them into small cubes, toss with butter or olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and mixed herbs. Roast them in a pan, bake them in the oven, or air-fry until crispy. These homemade croutons are perfect as a tea-time snack or as a topping for soups and salads.

2. Prepare Homemade Breadcrumbs

One of the easiest uses for leftover bread edges is making breadcrumbs. Simply dry the bread completely and grind it into a fine powder. These breadcrumbs can be used to coat cutlets, kebabs, tikkis, or nuggets. Store them in an airtight container and use them whenever needed.

3. Make Sweet Bread Pudding or Bread Kheer

Bread crusts can also be used to prepare a delicious dessert. Grind the bread edges, boil milk in a pan, and add the ground bread along with sugar, cardamom, and dry fruits. Cook until thick and creamy. This simple bread kheer or pudding is loved by both kids and adults.

4. Use in Veg Cutlets or Koftas

Soak the bread edges in water or milk, squeeze out the excess liquid, and mix them with boiled potatoes, vegetables, and spices. This helps bind the mixture well and makes cutlets or koftas soft and flavorful.

5. Try Bread Upma or Bread Chivda

Leftover bread edges can be chopped into small pieces and lightly fried. Cook them upma-style with mustard seeds, curry leaves, onions, and basic spices for a quick breakfast. You can also season and roast them to make crispy bread chivda or chips.