Ah, you’re talking about the classic Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast — often called “S.O.S.” (for “Sh*t on a Shingle” in military slang) 🇺🇸. It’s a rich, creamy, salty, and comforting breakfast or brunch dish. Here’s a straightforward recipe:
🥪 Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast
Ingredients (serves 2–4)
- 4 oz (115 g) dried or smoked chipped beef, sliced into small pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of toast (white, wheat, or your favorite)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef
- If using dried or salted beef, soak briefly in water to reduce saltiness.
- Chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the roux
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
- Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, forming a roux.
- Add milk
- Gradually whisk in milk to avoid lumps.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and smooth (about 3–5 minutes).
- Add beef and season
- Stir in chopped beef.
- Season lightly with salt and generous black pepper. Simmer 2–3 minutes until beef is heated and flavors meld.
- Serve
- Toast bread slices.
- Spoon the creamed chipped beef over toast. Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Creamed Chipped Beef
- Milk: Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Consistency: Adjust thickness by adding more milk if too thick or simmering longer if too thin.
- Pepper generously: The pepper balances the saltiness of the beef.
- Variations: Add a pinch of nutmeg, mustard powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce for depth.
Optional Additions
- Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar for a cheesy version.
- Herbs: Parsley or chives for garnish.
- Extra creaminess: Stir in a tablespoon of cream or cream cheese at the end.
If you want, I can give a restaurant-style version of Creamed Chipped Beef that’s ultra-creamy, perfectly seasoned, and never too salty, just like classic diners do it.
Do you want me to do that?