Bushra Griffith
A splash of Worcestershire sauce on cheese on toast is a British tradition. The fermented condiment, which originated in the 19th century, is added to the dish in various ways. Some like to marinate the bread in Worcestershire sauce before frying, while others add a drizzle after the cheese has melted. The sauce is known to give the dish an extra kick, with its tangy vinegar and sweet molasses flavours. It's also a key ingredient in Welsh rarebit, a predecessor to cheese on toast.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cultural origin | British |
| Typical cheese | Cheddar |
| Other common cheeses | Gruyere |
| Bread type | Thick, crusty |
| Condiments | Mustard, mayonnaise, relish, pickle, chutney, pickled onions |
| Other ingredients | Fried egg, baked beans, sour or sweet pickle relish, caramelized or raw onions |
| When to add Worcestershire sauce | Before grilling, after grilling, or mixed with the cheese |
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What You'll Learn
When to add Worcestershire sauce
There are several ways to add Worcestershire sauce to your cheese on toast, depending on your preference and the type of cheese you use.
If you are using grated cheese, you can add Worcestershire sauce to the grated cheese in a bowl and mix before topping your toast. Alternatively, you can brush the sauce onto the toast before adding the grated cheese or drizzle it over the cheese before broiling. This ensures the sauce is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
If you are using a slice of cheese, it is best to add the Worcestershire sauce after the cheese has been broiled or grilled. This is because the sauce won't penetrate a thick slice of cheese as it cooks, so adding it beforehand may result in puddles of sauce or it sliding off. Drizzling the sauce over the melted cheese ensures uniform absorption and allows the flavours to mix as you eat.
Some recipes suggest marinating the bread in Worcestershire sauce for 24 hours before frying or toasting it. This method may be preferable if you want the sauce to permeate the entire dish, although it is more time-consuming.
Worcestershire sauce is commonly added to cheese on toast to give it an extra kick of flavour. It is a native British sauce that originated in the early 19th century and has been used to enhance the flavour of cheese on toast for over a century. The sauce's fermentation process and anchovy content give it a powerful umami taste that enriches the savoury, salty, and creamy flavours of the cheese. The tanginess of the vinegar and sweetness of the molasses in Worcestershire sauce also complement the cheese.
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What type of cheese to use
When it comes to the type of cheese to use for cheese on toast, there are several options to consider. A mature English cheddar is a traditional choice, valued for its sharpness and melting capabilities. Irish cheddar is another popular option, offering a unique flavour profile that enhances the dish. If you're looking for a more indulgent option, a combination of Gruyère and Parmesan provides a rich and creamy texture. For those who prefer a simpler approach, a basic slice of American cheese can be used, providing a quick and easy melt.
When creating cheese on toast, the type of cheese you select can significantly impact the overall taste and texture of the dish. Cheddar cheese, for instance, is a versatile option that can be sliced or grated, resulting in a bubbly and golden appearance. It pairs well with additional toppings such as mustard, mayonnaise, or even a fried egg. If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with other cheese combinations, such as mixing Gruyère and Parmesan or using a single variety of creamy, meltable cheese like Gruyère.
The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and complements your preferred flavour profile. For those who enjoy a sharper taste, English cheddar or Gruyère are excellent choices. If you prefer a richer, more indulgent experience, combining Gruyère with Parmesan or opting for a cheese like Monterey Jack can create a decadent, creamy texture. Those who favour a more straightforward approach might opt for American cheese, which is known for its melting properties and ease of preparation.
While the aforementioned cheeses are popular choices, feel free to experiment with other varieties to find your preferred combination. Cheese on toast is a versatile dish that accommodates various cheeses and toppings, allowing you to customise it to your taste. Whether you prefer a classic mature cheddar or a more intricate blend of cheeses, the key is to select a variety that melts well and enhances the overall flavour of your creation.
Ultimately, the type of cheese you select for your cheese on toast will depend on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as flavour, meltability, and texture when making your choice. Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and toppings to discover new flavour profiles that excite your palate. With a plethora of cheese options available, you can make each cheese on toast experience unique and tailored to your tastes.
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What type of bread to use
When making cheese on toast, the type of bread you use is important. While you can use any bread, a thicker, crustier bread is recommended to withstand the weight of melted cheese and absorb Worcestershire sauce more efficiently.
One option is to use malted grain (granary) bread. The malt flakes and seeds add texture and a warming flavour that complements the gooey cheese topping. The wheat flakes add a light but sweet nuttiness, and the flavour from the bread is sweet and refreshing. The toast is also slightly crispy, making it a perfect partnership for grilled cheese.
Another option is to use whole wheat bread. The hearty taste of toasted whole wheat bread makes a fantastic base for the cheese sauce and adds interest and flavour to the dish.
You could also try a sourdough bloomer. This bread is chewy, making it a great contrast to the gooey nature of melted cheese. It is a hybrid loaf (sourdough and yeast), so there are no big holes for the cheese to fall through.
If you want to keep things simple, a basic white sliced bread will do the trick. The crusty texture of toasted white bread contrasts nicely with the cheese, but it may lack flavour compared to other options.
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Other toppings
While Worcestershire sauce is a popular topping for cheese on toast, there are many other toppings that can be used to elevate this classic dish.
Mustard is a common addition, with some recipes calling for a smidge of mustard, while others recommend spreading it on the bread before adding the cheese. Grainy mustard and brown mustard are both options, and the latter pairs well with sharp cheddar. For an extra punch of flavour, Dijon mustard can be used.
Mayonnaise is another topping that can be spread on the bread or mixed with the cheese. Full-fat mayonnaise is recommended for the best flavour.
For those who enjoy a tangy twist, lime pickle or mango chutney can be added to cheese on toast. This works especially well with Welsh rarebit, a predecessor to cheese on toast that uses a more elaborate cheese sauce.
To make a more elaborate open-faced sandwich, toppings such as sour or sweet pickle relish, caramelised or raw onions, a fried egg, or even sweet and savoury British baked beans can be added.
Other creative toppings include marmite, salami, and stout. For a French-inspired option, an open-faced cheese and tomato sandwich can be made, drizzled with light mint and garlic pesto and spread with ricotta.
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How to cook it
Ingredients
- Bread (thickly sliced, crusty farmhouse, sourdough, or whole wheat)
- Cheese (mature cheddar, preferably; alternatively, gouda, gruyere, or goat's cheese)
- Butter (softened)
- Mustard (optional)
- Mayonnaise (optional)
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper (optional)
- Sides: Branston pickle, chutney, relish, pickled onions, salad, or soup
Method
- Preheat the grill or oven.
- If using butter, spread it on one side of each slice of bread.
- Toast the bread on both sides until golden.
- If using mustard, spread a little on each slice.
- If using mayonnaise, add a small amount to each slice.
- Top the bread with cheese, laying the slices as close to the edges as possible.
- If using grated cheese, mix it with Worcestershire sauce in a bowl before topping the toast, or drizzle the sauce over the cheese.
- Place the toast under the grill or in the oven and cook until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.
- If desired, season with salt and pepper and serve with sides of your choice.
Variations
For a twist on the classic, try adding one of the following to your cheese on toast:
- Stout
- Beer
- Lime pickle
- Mango chutney
- Honey-roasted pears
- Walnuts
- Beetroot
- Tomato
- Pesto
- Ricotta
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Worcestershire sauce is a great addition to cheese on toast, giving it an extra kick of flavour.
There are a few different ways to add Worcestershire sauce to cheese on toast. If you are using grated cheese, you can add the sauce to the cheese in a bowl before topping the toast, brush it onto the toast before adding the cheese, or drizzle it over the cheese before or after grilling.
Worcestershire sauce pairs well with creamy, meltable cheeses like mature farmhouse cheddar, Gruyere, or goat's cheese.
Other toppings that complement Worcestershire sauce include mustard, mayonnaise, sour or sweet pickle relish, caramelized or raw onions, a fried egg, or even sweet and savoury British baked beans.
