Welsh Rarebit

The British aren't renowned for their cuisine, but they are good on comforting, cheesy, buttery things. Everyone has his or her own version of Welsh rarebit -- basically, melted cheese on toast. It's great for lunch or tea and can be varied to taste. Some experts say Cheshire or Lancashire is the cheese for this, but most people use cheddar.

2 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese

1 ounce butter

1/2 cup ale

2 teaspoons prepared English mustard

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

6 large slices buttered toast

1. Melt the cheese and butter in the ale in a small pan. Stir over low heat until cheese is completely melted.

2. Add the mustard and a little salt and pepper. Cut each slice of toast in half and arrange the slices in a shallow ovenproof dish.

3. Pour the cheese mixture over the slices and place under the broiler until the cheese is bubbling and brown.