National Welsh Rarebit Day

Happy couple enjoying a plate of hot and melty Welsh rarebit, surrounded by a cozy cabin interior filled with rustic decor and a fireplace.. — National welsh rarebit day illustration

Welcome to National Welsh Rarebit Day! Get ready to dive into the cheesy world of this delicious dish and celebrate in style. Whether you're a cheese lover or a fan of the Welsh culture, this is the perfect day for you. So grab your crackers and let's get melting!

When is Welsh Rarebit Day?

It's national welsh rarebit day on the 3rd September.

The Origins of Welsh Rarebit

Contrary to popular belief, Welsh rarebit has nothing to do with rabbits from Wales. Sorry, Bugs Bunny! This savory delight is actually a rich cheese sauce made with ingredients like cheddar cheese, beer, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and a hint of spices. It's then poured over toasted bread for a gooey, indulgent treat.

The origins of Welsh rarebit date back to the 18th century, when it was known as Welsh rabbit. Yes, rabbit! But before you imagine a rabbit-shaped cheese dish hopping around, let's clear the confusion. The term "rabbit" was a slang term for meat, while "rarebit" was the butchered version of "rabbit." Over time, the dish evolved to include cheese, and the name Welsh rabbit became Welsh rarebit to avoid any confusion or misinterpretations.

Popular Variations and Surprising Twists

While the classic Welsh rarebit recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are numerous variations that cater to different taste buds. Some people like to add a hint of ale or beer to add a flavorful twist, while others prefer to sprinkle bacon bits or caramelized onions on top for extra indulgence.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with different cheeses like blue cheese or Gruyere for a unique flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, and that's the beauty of Welsh rarebit!

Celebrating National Welsh Rarebit Day

Now that you know the history and variety of Welsh rarebit, it's time to celebrate this cheesy delight on National Welsh Rarebit Day. Gather your loved ones and embark on a culinary adventure. You can whip up a batch of classic Welsh rarebit or put your own twist on this traditional dish. Don't forget to share your creations on social media using the hashtag #WelshRarebitDay!

History behind the term 'Welsh Rarebit'

1700s

The Origin of Welsh Rarebit

Welsh rarebit, also known as Welsh rabbit, is a traditional Welsh dish that originated in the 1700s. Despite its name, Welsh rarebit does not contain any rabbit meat. The term 'rarebit' is actually a corruption of the word 'rabbit.' The dish consists of a flour-based sauce, usually made with melted cheese, mustard, and stout or beer, which is served hot over toasted bread or an English muffin. The exact origin of the dish is unclear, but it is believed to have developed as a way to make use of the abundant cheese and bread in Wales.

1785

First Recorded Mention in Print

The term 'Welsh rabbit' was first recorded in print in 1785 in Francis Grose's book 'A Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue.' The book defined 'Welsh rabbit' as 'a Welch rare bit, i.e., a bit of bread and cheese toasted.' This was the first literary mention of the dish and helped popularize it outside of Wales.

19th Century

Evolution of the Term

During the 19th century, the term 'Welsh rabbit' began to be replaced by 'Welsh rarebit.' The change in spelling was likely meant to humorously imply that the dish was too sophisticated to be made with rabbit meat. Despite the name change, the dish remained essentially the same, with various regional variations.

20th Century

Welsh Rarebit's Popularity

In the 20th century, Welsh rarebit gained popularity both in the United Kingdom and the United States. It became a popular pub dish in Britain, especially among miners in Wales. In America, Welsh rarebit was often served as a comforting and hearty breakfast or brunch option. The dish even made its way into pop culture, being mentioned in books, movies, and television shows, further cementing its place in culinary history.

Did you know?

Did you know that Welsh rarebit was once considered a hangover cure? It was often enjoyed after a night of festivities to help alleviate the effects of a wild evening. Talk about a cheesy remedy!