Chipped beef on toast, affectionately known as “SOS” or “shit on a shingle,” is a nostalgic comfort food for many. The distinctive salty, smoky flavor of chipped dried beef draped in creamy gravy is hard to resist. But what if you have leftover corned beef and want to put it to use in a new recipe? Can you substitute corned beef for chipped beef in this classic dish?
The short answer is yes – corned beef can absolutely be used to make chipped beef With just a few simple preparation steps and recipe adjustments, you can transform leftover corned beef into an amazing creamed chipped beef.
Read on for everything you need to know about repurposing corned beef into this timeless military meal.
Overview of Creamed Chipped Beef
Before substituting ingredients let’s look at what exactly chipped beef on toast is. This dish was popularized in military mess halls and consists of the following components
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Chipped beef – Dry cured and smoked beef that is shredded or “chipped” into small pieces It has a concentrated savory flavor
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Creamy gravy – A smooth sauce made with a roux, milk or cream, and seasonings. It provides a lush base for the chipped beef.
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Toast – Typically white bread or biscuits served topped with the chipped beef and gravy. Provides a starch to soak up the rich sauce.
When made according to tradition, creamed chipped beef is a warm, comforting meal with a delightfully salty, smoky beef taste. Now let’s look at how corned beef can sub in.
Using Leftover Corned Beef as an Alternative
Corned beef is salt-cured brisket that has been seasoned with pickling spices. It has a distinctively seasoned flavor from the curing process. Because it is pre-cooked, corned beef makes a convenient substitute for chipped beef in this dish:
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It can be diced or shredded into “chips” rather than starting from a raw state.
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The salty, seasoned flavor provides a similar taste profile as chipped beef. Adjust seasoning accordingly.
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Using leftovers repurposes an ingredient you already have on hand.
The key is to chop or shred the corned beef into small pieces that can absorb the creamy gravy and distribute throughout the toast. With just a few tweaks, you can transform leftover corned beef into an easy, tasty creamed chipped beef.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamed Chipped Beef with Corned Beef
Follow these simple steps to turn leftover sliced corned beef into a comforting chipped beef on toast meal:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked sliced corned beef
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1⁄4 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices toasted bread
Directions:
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Dice or shred corned beef into small 1⁄4” pieces. Set aside.
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until smooth.
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Gradually add milk while continuously whisking. Bring to a simmer.
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Once thickened to a gravy consistency, add corned beef chips and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
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Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
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Toast bread slices. Top each piece with creamed corned beef mixture.
And just like that, you have transformed leftover holiday corned beef into a comforting chipped beef meal to enjoy! The salty savoriness of the meat pairs perfectly with the creamy gravy.
Cooking Tips for Making Creamed Corned Beef
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For maximum flavor, use the corned beef cooking liquid in place of some of the milk.
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For a smoother texture, puree the cooked corned beef in a food processor before adding to the gravy.
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Add a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire for extra zing.
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For richness, substitute cream for some or all of the milk.
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Fresh parsley, chives, or scallions add freshness and color as a finishing garnish.
With these helpful tips, you can easily create a delicious chipped corned beef dish with your leftovers. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions for Chipped Corned Beef
Creamed chipped corned beef is delicious on:
- Toast or Texas toast
- Biscuits or rolls
- Mashed potatoes
- Baked potatoes
- Rice or pasta
- Scrambled eggs
- Crepes or pancakes
Take this classic military dish to new heights by serving it over eggs benedict style on an English muffin, stuffed into a baked potato, or atop a warm waffle. The possibilities are endless!
FAQ About Using Corned Beef for Chipped Beef:
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Is chipped corned beef the same as regular chipped beef?
It is similar, but the distinct corned beef flavor changes it a bit. Adjust seasonings to account for the saltiness.
Do you need to cook the corned beef first or can you use it raw?
It must be cooked first since corned beef requires brining. Use leftover cooked corned beef.
What’s the best way to chop or shred the corned beef?
Dice finely or use a food processor for shredded “chips”. Aim for 1⁄4 inch pieces.
Can you use the corned beef cooking liquid in the gravy?
Yes, it adds great flavor. Substitute some or all of the milk with corned beef broth.
Final Takeaways
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Chipped beef is easily replicated using leftover cooked corned beef instead of dried beef.
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Dice or shred the corned beef into small pieces before adding to the creamy gravy.
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Adjust seasonings to account for saltiness and spice from the corned beef.
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Serve open-faced on toast or get creative with potatoes, eggs, or waffles!
With just a few simple preparation steps, you can transform leftover corned beef into a hearty and comforting chipped beef dish. This substitute puts a flavorful twist on the classic military meal.
So next time you have extra corned beef on hand, give chipped corned beef a try. It’s a delicious way to creatively repurpose ingredients already in your kitchen. Enjoy this taste of nostalgia!