If you love eating any dish that includes melted cheese, today would be an especially good day to indulge yourself; September 3 is National Welsh Rarebit Day. While the origin of the name for the cheese and toast tavern snack remains uncertain, what is certain is that Welsh Rarebit, or as it is also called, Welsh Rabbit, does not contain any rabbit. Although several versions for the British dish can be found, a typical Welsh Rarebit presentation consists of melted cheddar cheese, blended with other ingredients, including ale that is poured over toasted bread – humble, tasty and enormously satisfying. Another celebrated melted cheese dish coming from Europe is Croque Monsieur, a crustless melted cheese and ham sandwich that is reported to have originated as a snack served in French cafés and bars. (Julia Child’s take on Croque Monsieur is especially toothsome, so plan to make several if you want to try her recipe.) Pub food is no less fabulous enjoyed at home, and for cheese lovers, as a meal, or snack, Welsh Rarebit, or a Croque Monsieur sandwich grilled to a golden brown, hits the spot – and then some. Americans are wild for cheesy foods – macaroni and cheese, pizza, lasagna, cheeseburgers – maybe even Welsh Rarebit and Croque Monsieurs, too.
Sue Ade is a syndicated food writer with broad experience and interest in the culinary arts. She has worked and resided in the Lowcountry of South Carolina since 1985 and may be reached at kitchenade@yahoo.com.
