In the realm of timeless comfort food, “Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast” emerges from the annals of culinary history, ready to captivate your taste buds. Fondly known as “SOS” or “Sh*t on a Shingle,” this dish combines delicate slices of dried beef with a velvety white sauce, all served atop a bed of warm, toasted bread. Once an emblem of military mess halls and family kitchens, this humble classic has quietly slipped into the shadows. However, its enduring appeal, simple preparation, and rich, heartwarming flavors make it an unassuming gem worth rediscovering. Join us as we breathe new life into this cherished classic.
Recipe :
Ingredients :
- 2 cups dried beef, thinly sliced and finely chopped (look for it in the dried meats section of your grocery store)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (for a creamier texture, you can use half-and-half)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 4 slices of your favorite bread, toasted to perfection (common choices include white, wheat, or rye)
Instructions :
1. Prepare the Dried Beef:
- Begin by placing the dried beef in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. This soaking process helps reduce the saltiness of the beef. Once done, drain, rinse thoroughly, and gently pat it dry. Then, finely chop the beef into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Craft the Creamed Chipped Beef:
- In a generously sized skillet, set over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped dried beef and sauté until it takes on a subtle, enticing brown hue.
- Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the beef, and stir it in. This forms a roux that will help thicken the sauce. Continue to cook and stir for a couple of minutes to remove any raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk and Season to Perfection:
- Gradually introduce the whole milk into the skillet while maintaining a steady stirring motion. This prevents lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to gently bubble, achieving that luscious, creamy consistency.
- Season your creamed chipped beef with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of paprika. Taste and adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.
4. Toast Your Bread:
- While you’re crafting the creamed chipped beef, take the time to toast your bread slices. They should emerge from the toaster golden and crisp, ready to soak up the flavors of the dish.
5. Serve and Savor:
- To serve, place a slice of your perfectly toasted bread on each plate. Generously ladle the velvety creamed chipped beef over the toast. Watch as the sauce lovingly soaks into the bread, creating a harmonious and delightful pairing.
6. Relish the Delight:
- Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is at its best when enjoyed hot. If you wish, you can garnish it with an extra sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a dash of paprika. It’s a reawakened classic, ready to fill your dining experience with comforting nostalgia.
With our Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast recipe, you can celebrate the revival of a classic. This beloved comfort food, also known as SOS, delivers a symphony of flavors, including delicately sliced dried beef and a velvety white sauce, all harmoniously served on a bed of warm, toasted bread. Its simple preparation and timeless appeal elevate this dish to the status of a hidden culinary gem waiting to be discovered. Discover and savor this classic’s delicious, heartwarming flavors—a delightful journey through time and taste.