Creamed Chipped Beef: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Creamed chipped beef, also known as slippery beef, is a classic comfort food dish that's surprisingly easy to make. This creamy, savory dish is perfect for a cozy breakfast, brunch, or even a light supper. While it might seem like an old-fashioned recipe, its simple elegance and satisfying flavor profile continue to make it a beloved choice for home cooks. This guide will walk you through creating a delicious and authentic creamed chipped beef, ensuring a perfect dish every time.
Understanding the Ingredients: Quality Over Quantity
The key to a truly great creamed chipped beef lies in the quality of your ingredients. While the recipe itself is simple, using high-quality components will significantly elevate the final result.
Choosing the Right Beef:
- Thinly Sliced Beef: Look for thinly sliced dried beef, often labeled "chipped beef" or "dried beef." Avoid thicker cuts, as they won't cook evenly. The key is to find pieces that are uniform in thickness for even cooking and melting.
Other Essential Ingredients:
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, allowing you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard choice, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Milk: Use whole milk for the richest, creamiest sauce. You can experiment with half-and-half for an even richer flavor, but whole milk provides a wonderful balance.
- Seasoning: Keep it simple! Salt, black pepper, and a touch of white pepper often complement the delicate flavor of the chipped beef perfectly. Avoid overpowering the subtle flavors.
Step-by-Step Creamed Chipped Beef Recipe
This recipe provides a clear, concise guide to making delicious creamed chipped beef.
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces thinly sliced dried beef (chipped beef)
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of white pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: Gently separate the slices of chipped beef to avoid clumping during cooking.
- Melt the Butter: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Make the Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This creates the base of your creamy sauce. Don't brown the roux.
- Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Season: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and white pepper.
- Add the Beef: Add the chipped beef to the sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is heated through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Serve immediately over toast points, biscuits, grits, or your favorite side.
Tips for the Perfect Creamed Chipped Beef
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked chipped beef can become tough and dry. Cook just until heated through and tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Some prefer a bit more salt or pepper.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a touch of freshness.
- Variations: Experiment with adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of nutmeg, or a splash of sherry for added complexity.
Serving Suggestions for Creamed Chipped Beef
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving your creamed chipped beef with:
- Toast Points: Classic and simple, offering a perfect vehicle for the creamy sauce.
- Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits complement the savory dish beautifully.
- Grits: Creamy grits provide a hearty and comforting base.
- English Muffins: Split and toasted English muffins offer a delicious alternative.
- Potatoes: Roasted or mashed potatoes add a starchy element.
Enjoy your delicious homemade creamed chipped beef! It's a recipe that's sure to become a family favorite.
