National Welsh Rarebit Day

The story

The roots of Welsh Rarebit can be traced back to Wales, where it was known as “caws wedi ei bobi” in the Welsh language, which translates to “cheese that has been toasted.” The dish gained popularity in the 18th century, particularly among the Welsh, who had a historic fondness for cheese as a source of protein. Intriguingly, the name “Welsh Rarebit” is believed to be a jest at the expense of early Welsh peasants.

It's suggested that the name “rarebit” is a corruption of the word “rabbit,” and some may have assumed the dish contained rabbit meat due to the phonetic similarity. However, Welsh Rarebit is entirely meatless. In fact, the first recorded reference to the dish dates back to 1725, when it was humorously called “Welsh rabbit.”

Over time, as the dish gained popularity, the name evolved to “Welsh Rarebit,” perhaps an attempt to make it sound more fitting and less patronizing. So, what exactly is Welsh Rarebit? It's a simple yet delectable creation featuring hot melted cheese on toast.

The cheese sauce typically includes ingredients like beer or ale, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne, mustard, and paprika, giving it a burst of flavor. Some versions even add an egg on top, transforming it into a “buck rarebit.