Welsh Rarebit with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
This classic Welsh Rarebit recipe features a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce seasoned with Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, and paprika, served over toasted bread. Paired with oven-roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh thyme, this savory dish makes a delightful and comforting meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 8 oz Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- 2 Tbsp Flour
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Mustard powder
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
Other Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 8 oz Cherry tomatoes
- 1-2 Thyme sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the cherry tomatoes.
- Roast the Cherry Tomatoes: Spread the cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. If using, scatter the thyme sprigs over the tomatoes. Roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Toast the Bread: While the tomatoes roast, toast the slices of bread until golden brown and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
- Add Seasonings and Cheese: Reduce heat to low and mix in Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then slowly add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Assemble the Rarebit: Spoon the hot cheese sauce generously over the toasted bread slices.
- Serve with Roasted Tomatoes: Plate the Welsh Rarebit alongside the roasted cherry tomatoes and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a stronger flavor, use sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese.
- Worcestershire sauce adds umami, but can be omitted for a milder taste.
- Roasted tomatoes complement the rich cheese sauce with their natural sweetness and acidity.
- Serve Welsh Rarebit immediately to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
- To keep the rarebit warm while assembling, you can place the cheese sauce over the bread under a low broiler for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
