Gail Simmons's Welsh Rarebit with Guinness and a Fried Egg

Ingredients

• 0.3 teaspoon ground pepper 
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese extra-sharp grated
• 4 servings pickled cucumbers / gherkins for serving
• 4 large eggs 
• 1 tablespoon flour all-purpose
• 0.5 cup porter 
• 1.5 teaspoons ground mustard 
• 4 slices pumpernickel bread lightly toasted
• 4 servings salt and pepper 
• 2 tablespoons butter unsalted divided
• 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce 

Equipment

• frying pan
• sauce pan
• oven
• broiler
• spatula

Directions

1. Add one tablespoon of the butter to a small saucepan set over medium heat. When melted, add the flour, and stir continuously with a rubber spatula to prevent lumps. Cook until the roux is golden brown, stirring often, 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Add the mustard powder and cayenne, and stir well.
3. Add the Guinness and Worcestershire sauce, and stir until combined. Reduce the heat to low, and add the grated cheese, and stir until smooth.
4. Remove from heat.
5. Adjust oven rack to middle position, and preheat the broiler.
6. Place the slices of toasted bread on a sheet tray, and top with the sauce.
7. Place underneath the broiler and cook until the sauce is bubbly, about four minutes.
8. Meanwhile, add the other tablespoon of butter to a non-stick skillet set over medium heat. When the butter melts and starts to foam, reduce the heat to medium-low, and crack the eggs in. Cook until the whites are firm, but yolks are still runny.
9. Divide the broiled slices of bread between four plates. Top each with a fried egg. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with cornichons.