Peter'S Rarebit
Peter's Rarebit is a rich, cheesy toast topped with crispy bacon and roasted tomatoes, featuring bold flavors of mustard, beer, and spices, perfect for a hearty appetizer or brunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle tomato slices with sugar, salt, and pepper; broil on both sides and keep warm.
- Saute the bacon until crispy, then drain and keep warm.
- Melt the butter in a double boiler over simmering water.
- Add prepared mustard, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and Tabasco; blend well.
- Add the cheese cubes and stir until most of the cheese has melted.
- Pour in the dark beer and continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Beat the egg yolks with the whipping cream and slowly add to the cheese mixture, stirring constantly until thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Toast the split English muffins until golden brown.
- Layer the tomato slices and bacon on the toasted muffins.
- Spoon the thickened cheese sauce over the assembled toppings and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using a mix of Cheddar and Gruyère cheese. If you want a bit of a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika. You can also substitute the dark beer with a stout or even a non-alcoholic beer for a similar depth of flavor. Make sure to keep the cheese on low heat to prevent it from becoming grainy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Peter's Rarebit with a side of mixed greens or a simple salad to balance the richness of the cheese. It also pairs beautifully with Marylou'S Special Brunch for a delightful gathering. For a heartier meal, consider adding roasted vegetables or a light soup to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cheese sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. For the muffins and toppings, a quick broil in the oven can help revive their crispiness while warming them up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peter'S Rarebit contains roughly 1192 calories, with 46g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (137% of the Daily Value), protein (92% of the Daily Value), and calcium (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2879mg per serving (125% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce in advance. Allow it to cool, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of milk or beer to adjust the consistency if needed.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp Cheddar is traditional for its bold flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for added complexity. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a similar umami flavor. Additionally, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian, as some brands contain anchovies.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).