If you’ve ever wondered how to make chip beef, you’re in the right place. Chip beef, often known as dried, thinly sliced beef, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in comforting dishes like creamed chipped beef on toast or as a savory snack. In this article, I’ll walk you through what chip beef is, how to prepare it, and a few delicious ways to enjoy it. Let’s dive in!
What Is Chip Beef?
Chip beef is essentially thinly sliced, dried beef that has been salted and cured. It’s usually sold in small, irregular pieces or strips. This preserved beef has a salty, intense flavor and is a staple in classic American comfort food recipes, especially the beloved “creamed chipped beef on toast,” sometimes affectionately called “SOS” in military slang.
How to Make Chip Beef at Home
Making chip beef from scratch involves drying thin slices of beef, but you can also prepare it by using pre-packaged dried beef and turning it into a tasty dish. Here’s a simple way to prepare chip beef for cooking:
Ingredients You’ll Need:
– Dried chipped beef (available at most grocery stores)
– Butter
– All-purpose flour
– Milk
– Black pepper
– Optional: sugar or other seasonings to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation:
- Cut the Chip Beef: If your dried beef comes in large pieces, cut it into small, bite-sized pieces or strips. Some people like to rinse the beef briefly to reduce excess salt, but this is optional depending on your taste.
- Make a Roux: In a skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in an equal amount of flour to form a smooth paste called a roux. This will thicken your sauce.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Add the Chip Beef: Stir in the chipped beef pieces and season with black pepper. You can add a pinch of sugar if you want to balance the saltiness. Heat through, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Traditionally, creamed chipped beef is served hot over toasted bread or biscuits for a hearty, nostalgic meal.
Variations and Tips for Making Chip Beef Dishes
– Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast: This is the classic way to enjoy chip beef. The creamy sauce and salty beef pair perfectly with crisp toast, making a quick and satisfying breakfast or dinner.
– Chipped Beef Dip: For a party-friendly twist, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and diced chipped beef. Bake until bubbly and serve with crackers or veggies.
– Beef Chips Snack: If you want a crunchy, protein-packed snack, you can make crispy beef chips by thinly slicing fresh beef, seasoning it, and baking or air frying until crisp. This is a low-carb alternative to potato chips.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chip Beef
– Control Saltiness: Dried beef can be quite salty. Rinsing the beef briefly under cold water before cooking can help reduce saltiness.
– Use Fresh Milk: Whole milk or 2% milk works best to create a rich, creamy sauce.
– Keep the Sauce Smooth: Constant whisking when adding milk prevents lumps in your cream sauce.
– Customize Flavors: Experiment with adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for a flavor boost.
– Serving Suggestions: Besides toast, try serving creamed chipped beef over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even steamed rice for a comforting meal.
Why Make Chip Beef at Home?
While you can buy pre-packaged chipped beef, making your own creamed chipped beef dish at home lets you control the ingredients, adjust the seasoning to your liking, and enjoy a warm, nostalgic dish anytime. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and uses pantry staples.
Chip beef is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re craving a creamy breakfast or a savory snack, chip beef dishes deliver satisfying flavor with minimal fuss. Give it a try and enjoy this timeless taste!