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welsh rarebit recipe

Welch Rarebit: Classic British Comfort Food Made Easy


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  • Author: Ethan Collins
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Welsh Rarebit is a classic British comfort food featuring a rich, savory cheese sauce served atop toasted bread. Known for its simplicity and deeply satisfying flavors, it has been a favorite in British taverns and homes for centuries. With a blend of sharp cheese, beer or ale, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, Welsh Rarebit offers a rich and creamy experience perfect for any cozy meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Cheddar cheese – Sharp and aged cheddar preferred for bold flavor; Gruyère or Cheshire can be used for a unique twist.
  • Beer or Ale – Adds depth to the sauce; use milk or cream for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Worcestershire sauce – For a savory kick; soy sauce can be substituted.
  • Mustard – Traditional English mustard for subtle heat; Dijon works as an alternative.
  • Bread – Thick-cut, crusty bread works best; whole grain or sourdough are great options.
  • 1 ½ cups sharp Cheddar cheese, grated
  • ½ cup beer or ale (or milk/cream for non-alcoholic option)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp English mustard (or Dijon)
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 slices thick-cut bread, toasted

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cheese Sauce Base
    In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
  • Build the Cheese Sauce
    Gradually add the beer (or milk/cream) to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add Cheese and Seasonings
    Lower the heat to prevent boiling, and slowly add the grated cheese, stirring until smooth. Mix in Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and cayenne pepper if using, adjusting seasoning to taste.
  • Assemble the Welsh Rarebit
    Spoon the cheese sauce generously over toasted bread slices, spreading evenly.
  • Broil to Finish
    Place the assembled rarebits under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese sauce bubbles and turns golden.
  • Serve Warm
    Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs like thyme if desired. Accompany with pickles or a crisp salad for a full meal.

Notes

  • Avoid Overheating – Keep the cheese sauce from boiling to maintain a creamy texture.
  • Experiment with Cheese – Gruyère or Emmentaler add unique flavors.
  • Non-Alcoholic Option – Substitute beer with milk or cream for a family-friendly version.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Stovetop, Broiler
  • Cuisine: British

Nutrition

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 390mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg