Scotch Rarebit. Recipe

Introduction:

Scotch Rarebit is a delicious and comforting dish that originated in Scotland. It is a variation of the traditional Welsh Rarebit, which is a famous cheese sauce served over toasted bread. The Scotch version adds a unique twist by incorporating strong coffee and gelatin into the mixture. This delightful recipe dates back several centuries and has been enjoyed by many generations. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Scotch Rarebit, providing step-by-step instructions and interesting facts along the way.

Ingredients:

- 1-1/2 cups of strong coffee
- 1/2 cup of rich milk
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoonful of gelatin
- Pinch of salt
- 3 eggs (separated)
- 1/2 cup of sugar (for beating the egg yolks)
- 1 teaspoonful of vanilla
- Whipped cream (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, combine 1-1/2 cups of strong coffee and 1/2 cup of rich milk. The double boiler allows for gentle heating and prevents scorching. If you don't have a double boiler, you can use a heatproof bowl placed over a pot of simmering water.

2. Add 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoonful of gelatin, and a pinch of salt to the coffee-milk mixture. Stir well until the gelatin and sugar are dissolved. The gelatin will help the mixture set later on.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with 1/2 cup of sugar until the mixture thickens. This step adds richness and sweetness to the Scotch Rarebit.

4. Once the yolks are thickened, gradually pour them into the coffee-milk mixture, stirring constantly. This ensures even distribution of the yolks throughout the mixture.

5. Remove the double boiler from the heat. At this point, the mixture should be smooth and well combined.

6. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they form a froth. This will give the Scotch Rarebit a light and fluffy texture.

7. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the coffee-milk mixture. The frothy egg whites will add airiness to the dish.

8. Add 1 teaspoonful of vanilla to enhance the flavor of the Scotch Rarebit. Stir well to incorporate the vanilla.

9. Prepare a mold by greasing it lightly with butter or oil. The mold can be any shape or size you prefer, as long as it can hold the mixture.

10. Pour the Scotch Rarebit mixture into the prepared mold. Smooth the surface with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

11. Place the mold in the freezer and allow the mixture to freeze until it becomes hard. This typically takes a few hours, depending on the volume and temperature of your freezer.

12. Once frozen, remove the mold from the freezer. To serve, carefully unmold the Scotch Rarebit onto a serving plate. If the mold seems stuck, briefly dip the bottom of the mold in warm water to loosen the edges.

13. Garnish the Scotch Rarebit with a dollop of whipped cream. The cream adds a creamy and luxurious touch to the dessert.

14. Slice the Scotch Rarebit into individual portions and serve immediately. The contrast between the cold and creamy dessert, coupled with the flavors of coffee and vanilla, will surely impress your taste buds.

Fun Facts:

- The term "Rarebit" is a variation of "Rabbit." It was initially used to mock the Welsh, who were stereotypically portrayed as being too poor to afford meat for their meals. Thus, "Welsh Rarebit" was born as a meatless dish with cheese sauce.
- Scottish cuisine is known for its use of oats and barley. While Scotch Rarebit does not contain these ingredients, it is interesting to note the cultural influence on the dish's name.
- The gelatin used in this recipe acts as a stabilizer, allowing the mixture to set firmly. Gelatin is derived from collagen, a protein found in animal connective tissues.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Welsh Rarebit: As mentioned earlier, Welsh Rarebit is the dish that inspired Scotch Rarebit. It consists of a thick cheese sauce made from cheddar cheese, mustard, and beer or Worcestershire sauce. The sauce is poured over toasted bread and then grilled until bubbly and golden.

2. Croque Monsieur: This French sandwich is made with layers of ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce. It is typically served toasted or baked and is a popular dish in cafes and bistros.

3. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that combines cooked macaroni with a cheesy sauce. The mixture is then baked until golden and bubbly.

Conclusion:

Scotch Rarebit is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of strong coffee and creamy milk with the lightness of whipped egg whites. It is a unique twist on the traditional Welsh Rarebit, adding a Scottish touch to an already beloved dish. Whether enjoyed as a sweet treat or served as a finishing touch to a meal, Scotch Rarebit is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and creamy texture. Give this recipe a try and indulge in this delightful Scottish creation.

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