Welsh Rarebit

Though most have heard of Welsh rarebit, not everyone could describe what it is —essentially a thick cheese sauce made with cheddar and beer, poured over toast and sometimes broiled until blistered on top. It’s fantastic comfort food, and a great way to utilize days-old bread and any cheese ends you might have in your fridge.

Servings 4

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter 15 ml
2 tbsp all-purpose flour 15 ml
1 cup beer or ale 250 ml
1/2 cup half and half or whipping cream 125 ml
2 tsp grainy mustard 10 ml
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 5 ml
2 cups grated extra-old cheddar 500 ml
salt and pepper to taste
thickly sliced bread toasted or not, for serving

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, whisk the butter and flour over medium-high heat. Whisk in the beer or ale, cream, grainy mustard and Worcestershire and bring to a simmer; cook for a minute or two, until thickened.
Reduce the heat and whisk in the grated cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and/or pepper, if it needs it.
Spoon onto toasted bread and if you like, run under the broiler for a minute to blister the top.