Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
Creamed chipped beef, also known as “chipped beef on toast” or “SOS” (an acronym for “Save Our Stomachs”), is a classic American dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This hearty and comforting meal consists of dried beef in a creamy white sauce, served over toast. It gained popularity during World War II when it was commonly served to military personnel. In this article, we will explore the history of creamed chipped beef, share a delicious recipe, and provide answers to frequently asked questions about this iconic dish.
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Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
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Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dried beef (thinly sliced) | 8 ounces | Often sold in jars or packets |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | For roux and flavor |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup | Thickens the sauce |
| Whole milk | 3 cups | Creamy base |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Toast | 8 slices | Serving base |
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Instructions:
- Start by rinsing the dried beef under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with a paper towel, then cut the beef into thin strips.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the dried beef and cook for about 5 minutes, until it becomes slightly browned.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the dried beef is already salty, so use salt sparingly.
- Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
- To serve, place a slice of toast on a plate and ladle the creamed chipped beef over the top. Repeat with the remaining slices of toast.
- Garnish with parsley or chives if desired. Enjoy!
