The Holistic Kitchen

So just what exactly is Welsh rarebit, you may well ask?  For those concerned with bunnies and the approach of Easter, it does NOT contain rabbit or any other meat, for that matter.  Though it was initially called Welsh rabbit in the 1700’s, the origin of Welsh rarebit is not clearly known.  Wikipedia offers this:

It may be an ironic name coined in the days when the Welsh were notoriously poor: only better-off people could afford butcher's meat, and while in England rabbit was the poor man's meat, in Wales the poor man's meat was cheese.  It might also be understood as a slur against the Welsh: if a Welshman went rabbit hunting, rarebit would be his supper.

It is also possible that the dish was attributed to Wales because the Welsh were considered particularly fond of cheese

So what it IS, is nothing more than a seasoned cheese sauce over toast, and might well be the predecessor to Macaroni and Cheese.  According to the Food Lover’s Companion, Welsh rarebit is often served as a main course or for high tea (like supper or an after school snack).

Now, lest you think “cheese over toast” to be overrated, consider its mirror image, a grilled cheese sandwich.  Was this a favorite of yours?  How about mac n' cheese?  Does the thought of it take you back to your childhood?  For someone unable to enjoy this great American comfort food, but remembers it fondly and with longing, what a treat it would be to enjoy the flavors, the memories, without guilt or (negative) physical reaction! 

People who do not (or should not) eat dairy, such as those with Autism or those who are lactose intolerant (this article reports that 60% of Americans are lactose intolerant)!   Even someone who has chosen to reduce or eliminate dietary animal products for health or personal reasons can still enjoy the delight of long denied comfort foods, if they use “safe” ingredients.

If you’re still reading this post, then you unquestionably deserve the gift I am about to share:  Dairy free (Vegan) cheese sauce for Welsh rarebit (or Mac n’ Cheese) that tastes like the real deal.

Holistic Kitchen Welsh Rarebit (suitable for Mac n' Cheese)

Yield:  1 cup vegan "cheese" sauce

• 1/2 cup     full fat coconut milk
• 1/2 tsp      Bragg's apple cider (or coconut water) vinegar
• 1/2 tsp      minced dried onion
• 1/2 cup     shredded Daiya brand cheese alternative

Add coconut milk, vinegar and onion bits to a small saucepan.  Heat gently until just bubbling.  Add shredded Diaya and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.

Toss with 2-3 cups of cooked elbow macaroni or pour over toast in a shallow, oven-proof dish.  Broil for 5-10 minutes, if desired, until optional topping browns.

Please share your experience with comments below!!