Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

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Do you have any recipes from your childhood that you still crave? Chipped beef on toast is one of those recipes for me. I know it’s not fancy nor is it good for me, but I still absolutely love it. My mom and dad made it for us often while we were growing up, and it has always been one of my very favorite breakfasts. Since it’s not good for any of us, I only make this recipe once a year, usually for my birthday. This year, I made it today, to celebrate my dad’s 80th birthday. I wish he could have been here to eat it with us, but he was happy I made it in his honor. It tasted amazing as usual, and we all gobbled it up. The only thing that would have made this breakfast better is eating it with my dad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic dish is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it’s also incredibly satisfying. The creamy sauce combined with the salty beef and crunchy toast creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner, this recipe will warm your heart and fill your stomach.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Paper towels
  • Toaster

Ingredients

  • 1 jar of dried beef slices, rinsed well & chopped
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp flour
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 2 cups milk
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
  • Bread, toasted

Instructions

  1. Rinse the slices of dried beef really well – they are VERY salty! Once rinsed well, pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Chop the beef into small bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
  3. Heat the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Add the flour and pinch of cayenne pepper to the melted butter and whisk until well combined and cooked through, about 45 seconds.
  5. Very slowly add the milk while whisking continually.
  6. Once the milk has all been added, add the chopped dried beef.
  7. Cook, stirring occasionally, for a few minutes until thickened.
  8. Taste and season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste, if needed.
  9. Serve on top of dry toast immediately. Enjoy.

Tips for Success

Make sure to rinse the dried beef thoroughly to avoid an overly salty dish. Adding the milk slowly while whisking will help prevent lumps in your sauce. Be patient while the sauce thickens to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a twist, try adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of bread for toasting, such as sourdough or rye, to complement the cream sauce.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish provides a rich source of protein from the beef and milk. However, it is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sodium and fat content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh beef instead of dried? While the traditional recipe calls for dried beef, you can use thinly sliced fresh beef. Just be sure to season accordingly.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier? You can try using low-fat milk and less butter to reduce the calorie content, or serve it over whole-grain toast for added fiber.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast brings as much joy and nostalgia to your table as it does to mine. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your own experiences and variations in the comments below. Bon appétit!

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