TOTAL TIME PREP TIME COOK TIME INTENSITY17 minutes 7 minutes 10 minutes EasyServes: 2IngredientsFor the Rarebit2 large slices of good-quality bread (about 1½ cm thick) — sourdough or a sturdy white bloomer works best1 free-range egg50g Red Leicester or mature Cheddar cheese, finely grated1 tbsp half-fat crème fraîche1 heaped tsp English mustard25g jarred sliced jalapeños (optional, but recommended for the “punchy” version)A pinch of black pepperFor the Salad1 eating apple1 little gem lettuceExtra virgin olive oilRed wine vinegarSalt and pepperOptionalWorcestershire sauce, for servingInstructionsStep 1: Toast the Bread BasePlace your bread slices directly into the air fryer drawer. Set the temperature to 200°C (400°F) and toast for 5 minutes. This creates a sturdy, crispy base that won’t become soggy when the cheese mixture is added. If your air fryer tends to blow lighter items around, you can secure the bread with a small rack or skewer, but most models handle thick slices well.Step 2: Prepare the Rarebit MixtureWhile the bread toasts, crack the egg into a medium mixing bowl and whisk until light and foamy. Finely grate the cheese directly into the bowl, then add the crème fraîche, English mustard, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Mix everything together until you have a thick, cohesive paste. The egg provides structure and richness, while the mustard adds that signature Welsh rarebit tang.Step 3: Assemble the RarebitsOnce the bread is toasted, remove it from the air fryer and flip each slice over so the toasted side faces down. Spoon the rarebit mixture evenly over both pieces, spreading it to the edges. Gently press the jalapeño slices into the cheese mixture—this ensures they stay put during cooking and infuse every bite with their mild heat.Step 4: Air Fry Until GoldenReturn the assembled rarebits to the air fryer drawer. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for another 5 minutes, or until the topping is golden, puffed, and bubbling at the edges. Keep an eye on them during the final minute—air fryers vary in intensity, and you want the cheese melted and slightly browned, not burnt.Step 5: Prepare the SaladWhile the rarebits cook, prepare the accompanying salad. Slice the apple into thin rounds, then cut across into matchsticks. For the lettuce, click off the outer leaves, finely slice the inner base, and tear or slice the tender inner leaves. Toss everything gently with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a splash of red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The crisp, slightly acidic salad provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich, cheesy rarebit.Step 6: Serve and EnjoyPlate the rarebits immediately, add a shake of Worcestershire sauce if you like, and serve the salad alongside. Eat while hot—this is not a dish that improves with waiting.Nutrition InformationPer serving (based on Jamie Oliver’s recipe)NUTRIENT AMOUNTEnergy 325 kcalFat 17.7gSaturates 7.8gProtein 14.5gCarbohydrates 27gSugars 9.6gSalt 1.8gFibre 2.8g
Air Fryer Welsh Rarebit
