Ultimate Welsh Rarebit

“Rarebit is a classic Welsh dish that’s incredibly versatile. It works as a side or a standalone meal and is perfect for brunch – especially if you’re not an egg person.

Ingredients

250ml ale
50g unsalted butter
50g plain flour
Splash Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp English mustard
1 tsp cayenne pepper
130g mature cheddar, coarsely grated
130g red leicester, coarsely grated
Splash single cream
1 medium free-range egg yolk, beaten
4 thick slices bread

Method

1. Gently warm the ale through in a pan. In another pan, melt the butter over a medium heat, then add the flour and cook for a few minutes, stirring to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the beer to make a smooth sauce.
2. Whisk in the Worcestershire sauce, mustard and cayenne pepper. Add the cheeses and whisk until fully melted. Remove from the heat and stir in a splash of cream and the egg yolk.
3. Heat the grill to high. Grill the bread on both sides, then divide the cheese sauce among them and pop back under the grill until golden (about 2 minutes).