Few dishes blend tradition, comfort, and bold flavours quite like Welsh Leek Rarebit. This twist on the classic rarebit adds the delicate sweetness of leeks to an already satisfying dish, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a unique supper, this dish offers a cosy yet sophisticated experience.
At its heart, Welsh Rarebit is all about transforming simple ingredients into something spectacular. The star of this version is the leek, a vegetable long cherished in Welsh cuisine. As the leeks cook gently in a splash of rapeseed oil, their subtle, onion-like flavour deepens, releasing an inviting aroma that sets the tone for the dish. It’s a little nod to the humble roots of Welsh cooking, where local produce shines through.
Once the leeks are softened and cooled, the magic begins. The creamy richness of a free-range egg blends seamlessly with a heaped teaspoon of Dijon mustard, adding a punch of tangy warmth. Finely grated mature Cheddar—a cornerstone of any rarebit—lends its sharp, savoury depth. Mixing the leeks into this luscious combination ensures that every bite carries a hint of sweetness, creaminess, and umami.
The foundation of the dish is wholegrain rye bread, toasted to perfection on one side. The bread’s nutty flavour and sturdy texture provide the perfect canvas for the leek-cheese mixture. Once spread over the bread, the topping is crowned with a final sprinkle of cheese and placed under the grill. In just a few minutes, the topping transforms into a golden, bubbling delight, with the cheese melting into a gloriously rich crust.
The result? A dish that’s both rustic and refined. The leeks bring a touch of freshness, while the mustard and Cheddar add layers of complexity. Each mouthful offers a delightful balance—the crunch of rye bread, the velvety topping, and the satisfying savouriness that makes rarebit so beloved.
Welsh Leek Rarebit is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity done exceptionally well. Perfect alongside a crisp salad or a bowl of tomato soup, this dish is a comforting reminder of why the classics never go out of style.
Welsh Leek Rarebit
Ingredients
- 1 tsp rapeseed oil
- 1 large leek finely chopped
- 2 slices wholegrain rye bread
- 1 medium egg free range
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard heaped
- 30 g mature Cheddar cheese finely grated
Instructions
- Add the oil to a pan, then add the chopped leek and cook over a low to medium heat, stirring frequently, for 4 minutes until it is soft.1 tsp rapeseed oil, 1 large leek
- Remove the leek from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Meanwhile, turn on the grill to high and toast one side of the rye bread.2 slices wholegrain rye bread
- Add the egg to a bowl with the mustard and beat lightly. Next, stir in half the grated cheese and all the leek.1 medium egg, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 30 g mature Cheddar cheese
- Spread the mixture evenly over the untoasted side of the bread, sprinkle with the remaining cheese and grill for about 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
Nutrition
11 comments
The combination of creamy leeks, tangy mustard, and melted Cheddar on nutty rye bread is perfection.
The leeks add such a unique sweetness
The mustard gives it the perfect kick
The toasted rye bread adds a fantastic crunch that balances beautifully with the creamy topping.
I never thought such simple ingredients could create something so flavourful. This is my new go-to recipe for rarebit.
Haven’t made this in years but the leeks took it to a new level. Tasty
A delightful twist on a classic dish
It pairs wonderfully with a bowl of tomato soup.
Easy to make and so satisfying! The melted cheese and sweet leeks make this an instant favourite in our house.
A comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light supper.
This Welsh Leek Rarebit is bursting with flavour and warmth.