What Makes A Buck Rarebit Different From A Welsh Rarebit?

The addition of an extra ingredient can change a recipe entirely, and such is the case with the buck rarebit. A buck rarebit takes the classic Welsh rarebit — a satisfyingly toasted piece of bread that is covered with a spicy, cheesy sauce made from ale, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce — and takes the dish a step further with a healthy boost of protein. While something as comforting as cheese and toast seems like it can't be made any more delicious, the buck rarebit demonstrates otherwise.

A buck rarebit, also known as a golden buck, can be the perfect start to a fresh day (or a filling hangover cure after a long night out). Though traditional Welsh rarebit recipes have gone through a host of deviations since the 1700s, the buck rarebit takes the standard formula of a cheesy roux spiced with mustard, cayenne, and cinnamon and plops an egg on top to finish the dish.

Both Welsh and buck rarebit begin the same. Consider preparing your rarebit with either ale or Guinness, your choice of hot sauce or paprika, and melting either gruyére or British cheese to finish your recipe. 

By including an egg — either fried or poached, depending on your liking — on top of your prepared toast and cheese sauce, you have yourself a buck rarebit to serve. While making perfect poached eggs can test your culinary skills, fried eggs can be just as satisfying; the main concern is keeping the yolk intact: Many buck rarebit fans swear by the combination of gooey cheese and runny yolk. Garnish the presentation with cracklings of fresh ground pepper or sprinkles of paprika, and you have yourself a satisfying, tasty meal that is comforting served any time of the day. After all, there's usually a good reason why a recipe has been passed from one generation to the next, and these classic rarebits are prime examples.