Rachael Phillips

Welsh rarebit: a slice of history for St David’s Day

Wales's tastiest export is much more than just fancy cheese on toast

  • From Spectator Life
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I love St David’s Day. While it may not get as much attention as St Patrick’s, which seems to dominate the rest of March, it’s a great reminder that spring is on its way and an even better excuse to celebrate all things Welsh.

When you think of Wales, you may think of our stunning scenery, rolling hills, choirs, rugby (although, if you are Welsh, probably best not to dwell on that one at the moment), breathtaking coastline, and of course Tom Jones. But we also have some pretty good cuisine – and I’m not talking about cheesy chips and gravy.

Cawl, Welsh cakes, bara brith, leeks, laverbread and cockles are all famous Welsh foods – but perhaps the best known of all is Welsh rarebit. It’s the perfect dish to salute the onset of spring.

It appears that the Welsh have always been known for their love of melted cheese. A ‘joke’ from 1526 claimed that there were no Welshmen in heaven because God was tired of them being loud and rowdy.

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