Creamed chipped beef on toast, also known as “S.O.S” (Creamed Beef on Toast), is a classic comfort food dish that has been a favorite for generations. It consists of dried beef in a creamy white sauce, served over toast. This simple yet hearty dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying dinner. Follow this recipe to recreate this nostalgic favorite in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. dried beef, chopped into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- Pepper to taste
- Toast, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dried Beef
- Chop Beef: Chop the dried beef into small pieces. If the beef is very salty, you may want to rinse it briefly under cold water and pat it dry before chopping.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux turns a light golden color and begins to smell nutty.
- Add Milk and Cream: Gradually add the milk and heavy whipping cream to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Simmer: Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season: Season with pepper to taste. Remember, the dried beef can be salty, so go easy on additional salt until you’ve tasted the finished dish.
Step 3: Finish and Serve
- Add Dried Beef: Add the chopped dried beef to the cream sauce, stirring gently to combine.
- Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together and the beef to heat through.
Step 4: Toast the Bread
- Prepare Toast: While the creamed beef mixture is simmering, toast slices of bread until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate: Spoon the creamed chipped beef over the toasted bread slices.
- Garnish: Garnish with additional freshly ground black pepper if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish immediately.
Cooking Notes
- Dried Beef: Look for dried beef in the grocery store, typically found near canned meats or in the deli section. It has a salty and intense flavor that adds depth to the dish.
- Toast: Use sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread for the toast, as it will hold up well under the creamy sauce.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use fresh beef instead of dried beef? A: Traditional creamed chipped beef uses dried beef for its unique salty flavor and texture. If you prefer to use fresh beef, you can cook and chop it finely, but it will change the traditional flavor profile.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover creamed chipped beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.
Q: Can I freeze creamed chipped beef? A: Cream sauces can separate when frozen, so it’s not recommended to freeze creamed chipped beef.
Q: What can I serve with creamed chipped beef on toast? A: This dish is traditionally served over toast, but you can also serve it over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even pasta for a heartier meal.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free? A: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent.
Variations
Cheesy Chipped Beef
- Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce for a cheesy twist.
Herb-infused Creamed Beef
- Add a pinch of dried thyme or parsley to the cream sauce for added flavor.
Spicy Creamed Beef
- Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream sauce for a spicy kick.
Creamed chipped beef on toast is a classic dish that’s simple to prepare and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you’re making it for a nostalgic breakfast or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the creamy texture of the sauce paired with the savory bites of dried beef, all atop crispy toast. Share your experiences and variations with us in the comments below!
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