Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

by

👹‍🍳 How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

  • Unpackage the dried chipped beef and give it a quick rinse under cold water. This crucial step helps remove some of the excess salt it’s preserved with.

  • Pat the beef dry with paper towels, then chop it into small, bite-sized pieces or strips.

Step 2: Sauté and Build Flavor

  • In a medium saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

  • Add the prepared chipped beef and sautĂ© for 1-2 minutes, until it becomes fragrant and just starts to brown at the edges.

Step 3: Create the Roux

  • Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef and butter. Stir constantly and cook for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and well-combined. This cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the base of your sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

  • Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to ensure a perfectly smooth sauce without any lumps.

  • Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

  • Once thickened, stir in the Worcestershire sauce and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust pepper if needed (you likely won’t need extra salt).

Step 6: Serve Immediately

  • While the sauce is simmering, toast your bread until golden and crisp.

  • Place one or two slices of toast on each plate and ladle the creamy chipped beef generously over the top.

  • Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

💡 Tips for the Perfect S.O.S.

  • Rinsing is Key: Don’t skip rinsing the beef! It makes a significant difference in the final saltiness of the dish.

  • Creamier Variation: For an even richer sauce, you can substitute half of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.

  • Lump-Free Guarantee: The secret to a smooth sauce is adding the milk gradually while whisking continuously. A silicone whisk is perfect for this.

  • Modern Twist: Feel free to add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

This dish is more than just a recipe—it’s a connection to the past, a simple, rib-sticking meal that has stood the test of time. It’s humble, hearty, and undeniably delicious. Enjoy a taste of history!

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