Welsh Rarebit - A Treasured Welsh Food

Welcome to the Delicious World of Welsh Rarebit!

Wales is famous for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture and beautiful language. But we can't forget about one of its most delicious treasures - Welsh rarebit. For those who have not heard of this delicacy, you will be prepared to be surprised.

History of Welsh Rarebit

The name "Welsh rarebit" is a funny slang that has evolved over the centuries. It's basically toast with melted cheese, but of course, it's much more than that. It was a popular food among the poor Welsh who could not afford meat, so cheese was the next best choice.

There are several theories about the name. One of them is that "rarebit" is a derivative of "rabbit," reflecting the idea that it was a luxury food for people who couldn't afford real meat. There is also the other version, "baked cheese," which reflects exactly what it is - baked cheese.

Ingredients and Preparation

Although the recipe varies, there are some basic ingredients that make Welsh rarebit extraordinary. These are:

Bread (toast, preferably brown bread)

Strong Cheddar cheese (some use Caerphilly cheese)

The menu

Flour

Milk

Beer or lager (optional, but adds a rich flavor)

Mustard

Sosban Worcestershire

You suck

The Recipe

Prepare the Sauce : First, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for a few minutes to make a 'roux'. Gradually add the milk and mix well to make a basic white sauce.

Add the Cheese and Flavorings : Add the grated cheese slowly to the sauce and stir continuously until it has completely melted. Add the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper to taste. If you are using beer, add this at this stage and mix well.

Preparing the Bread : Toast the bread until golden and crunchy.

Combine It All : Pour the delicious cheese mixture over the toast. If you like, you can bake it all under the grill for a few extra minutes to make the top golden and bubbly.

Variations

There are many ways to adapt this recipe to your personal preferences. Some like to add ginger or paprika to add some spice. You can also add ham or bacon on top of the toast before pouring the cheese sauce for a slightly heartier version.

Conclusion

Welsh rarebit offers a unique dining experience that combines simplicity with rich flavour. It is a treat that warms the heart and brings with it Welsh history and tradition. Whether for lunch, a late night meal or even a quick break, this dish is sure to impress.

So, the next time you think of a tasty snack, remember to consider Welsh rarebit - the perfect image of Welsh comfort. Bon appétit, or as we would say in Wales, Mwynhewch eich bwyd! Or enjoy your meal!

Mastering the Art of Glamorgan Vegetarian Sausages at Home

Glamorgan sausages, a delightful vegetarian delicacy from Wales, are a perfect addition to any meal. 

These sausages are not only a fantastic meat-free option but also a celebration of traditional Welsh ingredients like Caerphilly cheese and leeks. 

With their rich flavour and satisfying texture, Glamorgan sausages can be enjoyed by vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Let's dive into how you can make these scrumptious sausages right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To make approximately 8-10 sausages, you will need:

175g (6oz) Caerphilly cheese (or a good substitute like Cheddar)

150g (5oz) fresh breadcrumbs

1 medium leek, finely chopped

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

1 teaspoon English mustard

2 large eggs (one for the mixture, one for coating)

Salt and pepper, to taste

100ml (3.5 fl oz) whole milk

Plain flour, for coating

Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by grating the Caerphilly cheese into a large mixing bowl. Add the fresh breadcrumbs, finely chopped leek, parsley, and thyme. Mix these dry ingredients together until well combined.

Mix the Sausage Base:

Add one egg to the mixture, followed by the mustard, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the milk until the mixture comes together into a firm, but pliable dough. If the mixture is too wet, add a few more breadcrumbs; if too dry, a splash more milk.

Shape the Sausages:

With your hands, divide the mixture into 8-10 portions, depending on your preferred sausage size. Shape each portion into a sausage shape, about 10cm (4 inches) long.

Prepare for Coating:

Lightly beat the remaining egg in a shallow dish. Place some plain flour on a separate plate. Roll each sausage in the flour, then dip into the beaten egg, ensuring they are fully coated.

Fry the Sausages:

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the sausages and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning frequently, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once cooked, place the sausages on a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain any excess oil. Serve your Glamorgan sausages hot, accompanied by a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or in a sandwich with a dollop of chutney or mustard.

Tips for Perfect Glamorgan Sausages

Cheese Choice: Caerphilly cheese is traditional, but if you can't find it, or fancy a bit of a change, use a sharp Cheddar or another semi-hard cheese with a similar texture and flavour.

Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs work best for this recipe. You can make your own by blitzing day-old bread in a food processor.

Herbs: Fresh herbs give the best flavour, but dried herbs can be used if necessary. Adjust the quantity accordingly as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Conclusion

Making Glamorgan vegetarian sausages at home is a rewarding culinary experience that brings a taste of Wales to your table. With their crispy exterior and rich, cheesy interior, these sausages are sure to become a favourite in your household. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this simple and delicious recipe is well worth trying. Enjoy your homemade Glamorgan sausages, and savour the flavours of Welsh tradition!

Savouring the Flavours of Wales: Exploring Traditional Welsh Foods

Welsh Cakes courtesy of la-fontaine & Pixabay

Welcome to a culinary journey through the picturesque landscapes of Wales, where tradition and taste converge to create a delectable tapestry of flavours. From hearty stews to indulgent desserts, Welsh cuisine reflects the rich history and vibrant culture of this enchanting nation. Join me as we delve into the world of traditional Welsh foods, each dish a testament to the warmth and hospitality of its people.

Cawl:

Let's start with a classic dish that embodies the essence of Welsh comfort food – cawl. Pronounced "cowl," this hearty stew is a staple in Welsh households, particularly during the colder months. Made with lamb or beef, along with root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and leeks, cawl is simmered slowly to perfection, allowing the flavours to meld together harmoniously. Served piping hot with crusty bread, it's the ultimate soul-warming meal.

Welsh Rarebit:

No exploration of Welsh cuisine would be complete without mentioning Welsh rarebit. Often described as "posh cheese on toast," this simple yet satisfying dish consists of a thick slice of bread smothered in a rich cheese sauce, typically made with Welsh cheddar, mustard, and ale. Grilled until golden and bubbling, Welsh rarebit is a favourite choice for a quick lunch or hearty snack, guaranteed to leave you craving more.

Bara Brith:

For those with a sweet tooth, bara brith is a must-try delicacy. Translating to "speckled bread" in Welsh, this traditional fruit loaf is infused with a medley of dried fruits such as raisins, currants, and sultanas, soaked in (Welsh!) tea overnight to plump them up with flavour. The resulting loaf is moist, fragrant, and utterly irresistible, perfect for enjoying with a generous slather of butter alongside a cup of tea.

Laverbread:

Venture to the Welsh coastline, and you'll discover laverbread, a unique culinary delight made from edible seaweed. Despite its name, laverbread isn't actually bread but rather a puree of cooked laver seaweed, often mixed with oatmeal and fried until crisp. Rich in vitamins and minerals, laverbread has been a traditional Welsh food for centuries, prized for its distinctive taste and nutritional benefits.

Welsh Cakes:

Last but certainly not least, we have Welsh cakes, deliciously sweet treats that are a beloved part of Welsh culinary heritage. Resembling small, thick pancakes studded with currants or raisins, Welsh cakes are cooked on a griddle until golden brown and lightly dusted with sugar. Served warm or cold, they're perfect for snacking on the go or enjoying with a cup of tea during a leisurely afternoon.

Conclusion:

From hearty stews to indulgent desserts, traditional Welsh foods offer a tantalizing glimpse into the culinary treasures of this captivating nation. Whether you're sampling a steaming bowl of cawl or savoring a freshly baked bara brith, each dish tells a story of tradition, passion, and a deep connection to the land. So why not embark on your own culinary adventure and experience the flavors of Wales for yourself? You won't be disappointed. Diolch am ddarllen! (Thank you for reading!)

Bendigedig! Recipes to celebrate St David’s Day

March 1st is St David’s Day so why not celebrate by cooking up some new recipes with a Welsh twist using Collier’s Powerful Welsh Cheddar?

Collier’s was inspired by Wales’ proud industrial heritage. Its characteristics reflect those of the coal miner - reliability, power and integrity - while its distinctive black packaging shows a miner’s face.

Collier’s is a cheddar with a unique long, powerful, creamy and slightly sweet taste. And unusually it contains tantalising “crunchy bits” which are actually tiny salt crystals, evidence of the cheese’s high quality.

It is the perfect ingredient in a range of recipes, more of which can be seen at www.collierscheese.com

These recipes all have a Welsh flavour and are bendigedig – wonderful!

Collier’s Cheese Welsh Cakes
Welsh cakes are a traditional Welsh favourite and it was customary to cook them over a heavy, flat, iron pan called a bakestone. Traditionally they are sweet, but for a savoury taste sensation, swap the sugar and sultanas for Collier’s Powerful Welsh Cheddar. These are great fun to make with children and cook in a few minutes on a hot frying pan.

For 20 Collier’s Welsh Cakes:
225g self-raising flour
110g butter
75g Collier’s Powerful Welsh Cheddar, grated
10g Parmesan, grated
4g fresh chives, chopped
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Pinch of salt
1 egg, beaten

Sift the flour, and then rub in the butter until crumbly.
Add the both the cheeses, chives, cayenne and salt and gently mix.
Add the egg and mix to dough. If the mixture is a little dry add a spot of milk, until dough is formed.
Transfer the dough on to a floured working surface and roll out to 5 mm (¼ inch) thick.

Using a 6.5 mm (2½ inch) plain cutter cut the dough into rounds. Re-roll the trimmings until all the dough is used.

Heat a heavy flat frying pan on a medium heat (traditionally a heavy flat iron pan called a ‘griddle’ pan or bakestone was used). Now grease with a little vegetable oil, using a piece of kitchen roll.

Cook the Collier’s Cheese Welsh Cakes in batches of 4 to 6 for about 3 minutes each side until golden brown. If they are browning too quickly, turn the heat down so they cook in the middle.

They should be fairly brown and crisp on the outside.
Serve immediately while still warm, with butter if you like.

Collier’s Welsh Rarebit

3 egg yolks
50ml brown ale
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
200g Collier’s cheddar
4 shallots – finely diced
3 x traditional muffins, cut in half

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Toast the muffins on both sides. Spread a layer of the cheese mix on top, quite thickly, and grill until brown and bubbling.


Collier’s Cheese, Leek and Chilli Muffins

The leek, like the daffodil, is the national emblem of Wales. Shakespeare refers to the custom of wearing a leek as an “ancient tradition” in Henry V. The leek is seen on the cap of the Welsh Guards and boys will be wearing them to school on March 1st, while girls will wear a daffodil.

These muffins are really easy to whip up and make a nice change in lunchboxes.

For 10 muffins:

200g self-raising flour
1 tsp baking powder
Pinch of English mustard powder
1 medium leek, finely chopped
1 medium red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
100g Collier’s Powerful Welsh Cheddar, grated
80ml milk
100ml vegetable oil
1 egg, beaten

Heat oven to 180° C / 160°C Fan / Gas Mark 4.
Line muffin tins with 10 cases.
Mix all first 6 ingredients gently together.
Now add the milk, oil and egg and fold together to form mixture.
Spoon the mixture evenly into the muffin cases (top with a little extra grated cheese if desired)
Bake for 25 minutes, then check to see if they are done.
Enjoy warm or cold
 

"Bwyd da ar gyfer Sant Davi Dydd!"

Collier’s Powerful Welsh Cheddar first at Foursquare

Collier’s Powerful Welsh Cheddar is the first cheese brand to exploit the location-based social network Foursquare.
Wales’ award-winning cheese brand enjoys strong customer loyalty and was one of the first cheese brands to embrace social media channels like Twitter and Facebook to engage with its customers.

Foursquare allows users to share their location with friends by “checking in” to attractions, shops, restaurants and pubs via their mobile devices, and sharing “tips” or recommendations. They earn points for checking in and the highest number of “check ins” can lead to them being made the “Mayor” of the venue.

Collier’s Powerful Welsh Cheddar, which is made in North Wales, is urging its Foursquare friends to “check in” at top Welsh tourist venues to discover the Welsh heritage that inspired the award-winning cheese.

“We think it is important to have a two-way communication with our customers,” says Darren Gough, brand ambassador for Collier’s, "and word of mouth is still the most powerful marketing tool."

Foursquare is essentially like word of mouth with people 'talking' via mobile phone and social media.

Says Darren, “I love using Twitter to keep in touch with what’s going on and have my say. And now we have another way to reach the people who are interested in our cheese when they are on the move.”

Visit Collier’s Powerful Welsh Cheddar on Foursquare at https://foursquare.com/collierscheese