Welsh-Style Cheese Toasts
This delightful dish combines the comforting flavors of rich, mature Cheddar cheese with a touch of English sophistication through Worcestershire sauce and mustard. It's a perfect snack or a quick meal that can be prepared in just a few minutes. The addition of beer gives these cheese toasts a distinct, hearty flavor, seamlessly blending with the spices and cheese. The slightly tangy and spicy undertones from the mustard and Tabasco sauce make every bite intriguing. If you're a fan of cheese, this recipe will surely become a favorite, offering both crispiness from the toasted bread and gooey goodness from the melted cheese. It's simple yet incredibly satisfying, ideal for any time when you crave something warm and savory. These cheese toasts can be a great hit at gatherings, offering friends and family a comforting treat. Pair them with a fresh salad or a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal. Prepare to indulge in these irresistible Welsh-style cheese toasts that are as incredibly flavorful as they are easy to make.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread
- 175g mature Cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
Sauces and Spices:
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp English mustard
- A dash of Tabasco sauce
- 30ml dark or light beer
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Preparation Time
- Total time: 10 minutes (5 minutes for preparation, 5 minutes for cooking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by lightly toasting the bread slices in a toaster until they are just golden. Set them aside in a warm place.
- Grate the mature Cheddar cheese and place it into a mixing bowl.
- Add the egg to the grated cheese, mixing well until fully combined to create a uniform mixture.
- To this mixture, add Worcestershire sauce, English mustard, and a dash of Tabasco sauce for a spicy kick.
- Gradually pour in the beer, stirring continuously to ensure everything is evenly blended.
- Season the cheese mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
- Take the warm toasted bread slices and spread the cheese mixture evenly on each slice.
- Preheat your grill or oven broiler to a high setting.
- Place the cheese-topped toasts on a baking sheet.
- Insert the baking sheet under the preheated grill or broiler.
- Allow the toasts to cook for about 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- Look for the cheese to melt and start bubbling with a nice golden-brown color.
- Once browned to perfection, remove the toasts from the grill.
- Serve immediately for the cheese toasts to retain their perfection.
- These toasts can be enjoyed on their own or paired with side salads.
- For added flavor, consider sprinkling herbs such as chives or parsley before serving.
- If desired, a sprinkle of paprika can offer an additional layer of flavor.
- For those who prefer less spice, reduce or omit the Tabasco sauce.
- These can also be made on a frying pan if a grill is not available.
- Enjoy your delicious Welsh-style cheese toasts while they are warm and gooey!
Tips
- Use a quality mature Cheddar for the best flavor.
- Substitute beer with non-alcoholic options like apple cider if preferred.
- Add extra spice by increasing the amount of Tabasco sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fats: 15g
- Carbs: 28g
Variations
- For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked cheese.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-free bread can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with tomato soup for a hearty meal.
Best Places
- The Cheese Bar - A popular spot for cheese lovers offering a variety of cheese-based dishes. Location: Camden Market, London, United Kingdom.
- Melt Room - Known for its gourmet cheese toasties and sandwiches. Location: Noel Street, Soho, London, United Kingdom.
- Cowgirl Creamery - Offers artisanal cheeses and dairy delights. Location: San Francisco Ferry Building, San Francisco, USA.
- La Fromagerie - Features an impressive cheese selection with a cozy eat-in area. Location: Marylebone, London, United Kingdom.
- Beecher's Handmade Cheese - Renowned for its mac and cheese and fresh artisanal cheese. Location: Pike Place Market, Seattle, USA.
- Murray's Cheese Bar - Provides an extensive cheese menu with perfect pairings. Location: Bleecker Street, New York City, USA.
- Fromagerie Laurent Dubois - Offers high-quality French cheeses. Location: Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
- Stilton Cheese Inn - Combines traditional English fare with specialty cheeses. Location: London Road, Stilton, United Kingdom.
- Milk The Cow Licensed Fromagerie - Combines an amazing selection of cheese with great wines and cocktails. Location: Fitzroy Street, St Kilda, Australia.
- Osteria del Proconsolo - Offers a classic Tuscan menu featuring exclusive cheese selections. Location: Via del Proconsolo, Florence, Italy.