This guide to shit on a shingle covers everything from its origins to how you can make it yourself today. Try this simple and tasty dish that brings history to your table!
Introduction
Shit on a shingle, commonly known as chipped beef on toast, is a dish that evokes a sense of nostalgia, particularly for those familiar with its military roots. Originally served to soldiers as a quick and economical meal, this dish has transitioned over the years from military mess halls to becoming a comforting classic in American homes. It’s a simple combination of creamy white sauce and dried beef, often served over crispy toast.
To understand why this dish holds a place in many hearts, it’s important to look back at its history and learn how it has become a cultural staple. But before diving into its backstory, let’s explore what makes this dish a comforting, easy-to-make recipe that still holds its own today.
History and Origin
Military Background: Origin of the Name “Shit on a Shingle”
The term shit on a shingle might make some chuckle, but it comes from a very practical history. This meal first appeared in military contexts during the early 20th century. “Shingle” referred to the toast, while “shit” was an informal term for the creamed beef topping that was poured over it. During wartime, this recipe was beloved for its affordability, ease of preparation, and ability to provide sustenance for the troops.
This dish quickly became associated with military culture, not only because of its use in feeding large numbers of people but also due to its consistent inclusion in the daily rations. The term “SOS” stands for “Save Our Stomachs,” though more informally, it also stands for something a bit more colorful that describes the dish’s appearance.
How the Recipe Became a Staple
After soldiers returned home, they brought the recipe with them, leading it to find its way into civilian kitchens. Many Americans grew up eating shit on a shingle because it was easy to prepare, inexpensive, and a comforting meal for families. Indeed, the rich creaminess of the sauce combined with the savory beef makes it a nostalgic favorite even today.
What is “Shit on a Shingle”?
Recipe Overview
At its core, shit on a shingle is a straightforward dish consisting of chipped beef—thin slices of dried or smoked meat—in a thick white sauce, all served atop a piece of toast. The key ingredients are:
- Dried or chipped beef
- Flour and butter (for the roux)
- Milk (to create the creamy consistency)
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
Chipped Beef vs. Ground Beef
While chipped beef is the traditional choice, many households have adapted the recipe to use ground beef, especially when chipped beef is harder to find. Chipped beef offers a salty, cured flavor, while ground beef provides a different texture and richness. Regardless of the meat used, the goal is to make a rich, savory sauce that complements the crunchiness of toasted bread.
For those who enjoy modern variations, chicken or turkey can be used instead. These leaner options bring their own flavors to the dish, making it more suitable for those watching their red meat intake.
Ingredients Breakdown
Traditional Ingredients
The traditional shit on a shingle requires only a handful of ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry. Here’s a detailed list:
- Chipped Beef: The key ingredient, offering a salty and savory taste.
- Butter: Used to create the roux that forms the base of the sauce.
- Flour: Mixed with butter to create the roux, which thickens the sauce.
- Milk: Creates a creamy consistency and balances the saltiness of the beef.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, depending on how salty the beef is.
Substitutions and Modern Twists
If you want to add a modern twist or adapt the recipe to fit dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions available:
- Meat Substitute: Try soy protein or tempeh to create a vegetarian version.
- Butter Substitute: Margarine or plant-based spreads can be used for those avoiding dairy.
- Low-Fat Milk: Use almond milk or skim milk for a lower-calorie version.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Shit on a Shingle
Cooking Instructions
To make shit on a shingle, follow these easy steps:
- Prepare the Roux: Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of flour and whisk until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Add the Milk: Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add the Chipped Beef: Stir in 6 ounces of chipped beef that has been cut into bite-sized pieces. Cook until the beef is warmed through.
- Season: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, chipped beef is quite salty, so use salt sparingly.
- Serve: Spoon the creamed chipped beef over toasted bread and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
- Avoid Clumps: Whisk constantly when adding milk to prevent the sauce from becoming lumpy.
- Season Gently: The beef is naturally salty, so taste the sauce before adding additional salt.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Versions
To make a vegetarian version, consider using mushrooms as the base. Their umami flavor provides a similar richness to that of chipped beef. Alternatively, soy crumbles or tempeh can be used for added protein.
Different Types of Meat
- Ground Beef: For a heartier version, use ground beef instead of chipped beef.
- Sausage: Breakfast sausage is another great substitute that brings extra flavor and spice.
- Bacon: For a smoky twist, add crumbled bacon to the sauce instead of chipped beef.
Serving Suggestions
While shit on a shingle is traditionally served on toast, there are other creative ways to enjoy it:
- Biscuits: Serve the creamy beef over freshly baked biscuits for a Southern-inspired twist.
- Pasta: Toss the creamy mixture with cooked pasta for a comforting dinner.
- Baked Potatoes: Spoon the mixture over a baked potato for a hearty meal.
Nutritional Information
Calorie Count
A traditional serving of shit on a shingle contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a relatively high-calorie dish, mainly due to the butter and flour used to make the sauce.
Making it Healthier
To lighten up the dish:
- Use Whole Wheat Bread: Instead of white toast, opt for whole-grain bread for added fiber.
- Lower Fat Milk: Use low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk.
- Less Butter: Cut down on the butter, or use a healthier alternative.
Pairing Suggestions
Breakfast Pairings
Shit on a shingle is traditionally served for breakfast. To balance out the richness, consider pairing it with:
- Fresh Fruit: The sweetness of fruit complements the salty and creamy dish.
- Orange Juice: A tangy drink to cut through the creaminess.
Lunch and Dinner Suggestions
- Green Salad: A fresh salad helps balance the heaviness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted veggies add both flavor and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is chipped beef on toast called SOS?
SOS, which stands for “Save Our Stomachs,” became a well-known nickname for chipped beef on toast due to its frequent appearance in military rations. The term, however, is also often used humorously to mean “Shit on a Shingle,” describing both the look of the dish and its widespread familiarity in the armed forces. The meal’s simplicity and affordability made it a staple food for soldiers during tough times.
Does the military still eat SOS?
While shit on a shingle was a mainstay in 20th-century military dining, the meal is far less common in modern military kitchens. Advances in food technology and changes in dietary preferences have diversified the options available to service members. However, many veterans and military families still prepare SOS at home as a nod to tradition and nostalgia.
What is creamed chipped beef made of?
Creamed chipped beef consists primarily of thinly sliced dried beef that is cooked in a white sauce. The sauce, which is made from a butter-and-flour roux mixed with milk, provides a creamy consistency that contrasts nicely with the salty beef. The mixture is typically served over toast, creating a combination of flavors and textures that has made it a lasting comfort food.
What is another name for chipped beef?
Chipped beef is also commonly known as “dried beef” or “pressed beef.” These names refer to the preservation process used to create the meat. In some regions, you might also hear it called “sliced dried beef,” which highlights the paper-thin slices that characterize chipped beef.
Conclusion
Shit on a shingle may have humble origins, but it has earned its place as a beloved comfort food in American culinary history. Its creamy, savory flavors and easy preparation make it a dish worth revisiting, especially for those who appreciate the nostalgia of a home-cooked classic. Whether you make it traditionally or add a modern twist, this dish brings a slice of history to your table.
So why not give this classic recipe a try? It’s an easy, hearty meal that comes with a story—and you might just find it becomes a favorite in your household too.