Patrick Oconnell
Cheddar cheese on toast is a simple, quick, and easy snack that can be made in a variety of ways. The basic recipe involves melting grated or sliced cheddar cheese on toast, which can be made in the oven, toaster, or microwave. Some popular variations include adding Worcestershire sauce, mustard, or mayonnaise, while other recipes suggest adding ingredients like tomatoes, chillies, or eggs to create a more substantial meal.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Bread, cheddar cheese, butter, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, malt vinegar, raw onion, cherry tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, black pepper, chutney, whisked egg |
| Cooking Methods | Grilled, baked, toasted, oven-cooked, air-fried |
| Variants | Welsh rarebit, Chilli cheese toast, Tomato-cheddar cheese toast |
| Ideal For | Quick snack, after-school snack, midnight snack |
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What You'll Learn
Grilled vs. oven-cooked
Cheese on toast is a quick, easy, and tasty snack. It is also known as grilled cheese and is a staple in the United Kingdom. While there are no hard-and-fast rules for making cheese on toast, there are some variations to consider when it comes to grilled vs. oven-cooked methods.
The grilled cheese sandwich is a classic, quick snack that can be made on a stovetop. It involves buttering or oiling the bread, adding cheese, and grilling it on a skillet or frying pan. Grilled cheese sandwiches have a crispy, salty, buttery exterior and molten cheese inside. The bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. Some people prefer to use two types of cheese, such as vintage cheddar and mozzarella, for a more indulgent treat. Others might add sliced tomatoes, spices, or herbs to enhance the flavour.
On the other hand, oven-cooked cheese on toast is made by baking the bread first, then adding the cheese and baking it again until the cheese is browned. This method takes longer than grilling as the heat is not as intense. However, it can result in a crunchier texture. One recipe suggests grating sharp cheddar cheese, placing it on white sandwich bread, and broiling until golden brown. The bread is then removed from the oven, allowed to cool, and the cheese is added. This method helps to prevent the base from becoming soggy.
Another oven-cooked method involves baking the bread with cheese at a lower temperature of 250°F for a total of about 9 minutes. This creates a less crunchy texture and prevents the bread from burning.
Ultimately, the choice between grilled and oven-cooked cheese on toast comes down to personal preference. Grilling is faster and creates a crispier exterior, while oven-cooking may be better for achieving an even melt and a crunchier texture.
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Sliced vs. grated cheddar
Cheese on toast is a simple, quick, and easy snack that can be made in a variety of ways. While there are no hard-and-fast rules, people can be quite particular about the "correct" way to make it, depending on their preferences and where they are from. One of the most debated topics is whether to use sliced or grated cheddar cheese.
Those who prefer sliced cheddar cheese might argue that it is a more straightforward and convenient option, as it does not require the additional step of grating. Sliced cheese can be placed directly on the toast, and some believe it results in a more even layer of cheese. Additionally, sliced cheese may be preferred by those who want a more substantial or "stodgy" texture in their cheese on toast.
On the other hand, proponents of grated cheddar cheese highlight the benefits of creating layers and tiny pockets of air within the cheese. This air incorporation results in a lighter and less stodgy texture, making the cheese on toast feel less heavy. Grating your own cheese also allows for better melting qualities, as pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can impact its melting ability. By grating your own cheese, you can also customize the size and thickness of the shreds to suit your taste and texture preferences.
When it comes to melting, grated cheese typically melts more evenly and efficiently compared to sliced cheese. This is because the smaller pieces of grated cheese have a larger surface area in contact with the heat source, allowing for faster and more uniform melting. This is especially important for cheese on toast, as you want the cheese to melt quickly before the bread burns or becomes overly crispy.
Ultimately, the decision between sliced and grated cheddar cheese for cheese on toast comes down to personal preference. Both options have their advantages, and it's worth trying both methods to see which one you prefer. Experiment with different types of cheddar, bread, and additional ingredients to find your perfect cheese on toast recipe.
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Buttered vs. plain bread
There are many ways to make cheddar cheese on toast, and the choice of bread is an important one. Some recipes call for plain bread, while others recommend buttering the bread before adding the cheese. So, which is better?
Buttered bread will create a golden crust and a moist interior. It can also add flavour to the toast. If you use unsalted butter, adding a pinch of salt to the pan can enhance the flavour even more. Buttering the bread can also help to prevent the cheese from burning, as it creates a barrier between the bread and the cheese. This is especially important if you are using a powerful broiler or a high oven temperature.
On the other hand, using plain bread can result in a crispier, drier toast. This can be desirable if you prefer your cheese on toast to have a firmer texture and bite. Using plain bread can also allow the flavour of the cheese to shine through without any interference from the butter.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use buttered or plain bread for your cheddar cheese on toast comes down to personal preference. If you want a richer, more indulgent treat, buttered bread is the way to go. However, if you prefer your cheese on toast to be lighter and less calorific, plain bread is the better option.
Buttered Bread Cheddar Cheese on Toast:
- Butter both sides of a slice of white bread.
- Quickly brown both sides of the bread in a hot skillet.
- Top the bread with grated cheddar cheese.
- Heat the bread in the skillet for 3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Enjoy your cheddar cheese on toast!
Plain Bread Cheddar Cheese on Toast:
- Place two slices of white sandwich bread on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Broil until deep golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and lean the toasts against each other to stand upright on the rack for 2 minutes to cool slightly and crisp.
- Divide 4 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese onto the bread, making sure the edges are completely covered to prevent burning.
- Drizzle 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce onto each toast.
- Enjoy your plain bread cheddar cheese on toast!
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Add-ons: mustard, mayo, Worcestershire sauce, etc
When it comes to add-ons for your cheddar cheese on toast, there are several options to consider, each offering its own unique flavour and texture to the classic dish.
Mustard
A popular choice to elevate the flavour of cheddar cheese on toast is mustard. The sharp tang of mustard provides a nice contrast to the creamy, salty cheese. You can experiment with different types of mustard, such as grainy mustard or Dijon mustard, to find your preferred level of spiciness and texture. The amount of mustard used can also be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you prefer a subtle hint or a more prominent kick.
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise is another classic condiment that pairs well with cheddar cheese on toast. The creaminess of mayonnaise complements the sharpness of cheddar cheese, creating a rich and indulgent mouthfeel. Opt for full-fat mayonnaise to ensure the best flavour and texture combination.
Worcestershire Sauce
A dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a savoury, umami boost to your cheddar cheese on toast. The complex blend of flavours in Worcestershire sauce, including vinegar, garlic, and spices, enhances the overall taste experience. While some people enjoy the added depth of flavour from Worcestershire sauce, it is not a mandatory ingredient, so feel free to omit it or adjust the amount to suit your preference.
In addition to these classic add-ons, you can also experiment with other ingredients to customise your cheddar cheese on toast. Freshly ground black pepper is a simple way to add a bit of spice, while sliced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a lightly whisked egg to the mix, which will puff up the cheese and create a heartier dish. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even include chopped green chillies for a spicy kick or a few slices of mushroom for an earthy twist.
The beauty of cheddar cheese on toast lies in its versatility, allowing you to customise it to your liking. Whether you stick to the classic combination of cheese, butter, and bread or experiment with various add-ons, this dish is a quick, easy, and comforting meal that's perfect for any time of the day.
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Variations: Welsh rarebit, chilli cheese toast, etc
Cheddar cheese on toast is a versatile dish that can be modified in numerous ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some popular variations:
Welsh Rarebit
Welsh rarebit, also known as Welsh rabbit, is a traditional Welsh dish that is often likened to cheese on toast but with some additional ingredients. It consists of a savoury melted cheese sauce made with grated sharp cheddar cheese, stout, beer, or ale, butter, Worcestershire sauce, and English mustard spread on toast and grilled. Some people also use other types of cheese, such as Lancashire, Cheshire, or Double Gloucester. The dish is said to have originated in Wales in the 1500s as a meal for the working class, who couldn't afford meat.
Chilli Cheese Toast
Chilli cheese toast is a popular Indian street food that is quick and easy to make, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or breakfast. It is made with bread, cheese, chillies, and veggies of your choice. You can add green chillies, onions, bell peppers, and other vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or cabbage. The ingredients are spread on bread and baked until the bread is crisp and the cheese has melted.
Other Variations
There are endless variations of cheddar cheese on toast that you can create by adding different ingredients. Some people like to add a tablespoon of malt vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the grated cheese, while others prefer sliced raw onion, sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or chutney. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough, French bread, or whole wheat.
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Frequently asked questions
It is a quick and easy snack that can be made in a variety of ways. The basic recipe involves melting shredded or sliced cheddar cheese on toast.
There are many ways to make cheddar cheese on toast. Here is a simple recipe: First, toast your bread. Then, grate or slice your cheddar cheese and place it on the toast. Finally, melt the cheese in the oven, toaster oven, or microwave.
Some people like to add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, or mayonnaise to their cheddar cheese on toast. You can also try adding sliced raw onion, chopped green chillies, or cherry tomatoes. For a more substantial meal, you can include a sliced egg or some ham.
You can use any type of bread you prefer. Some people like to use white sandwich bread, while others prefer Texas Toast or French bread.
You can use any type of cheddar cheese that melts well. Some people prefer shredded or grated cheese, while others prefer slices. A good aged, mature English cheddar is traditional, but any melty cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack will work.
