shit on a shingle

3 min read 16-01-2025

Meta Description: Discover the surprisingly delicious history and recipe for "Shit on a shingle," a classic American comfort food featuring creamy chipped beef gravy over toast. Learn how to make this simple yet satisfying dish at home! Don't let the name fool you – this is a true culinary gem!

What is Shit on a shingle?

"Shit on a shingle" (SOS) sounds unappetizing, doesn't it? But this classic American comfort food is far more delicious than its name suggests. SOS is simply chipped beef (very thinly sliced dried beef) simmered in a creamy gravy, then served over toast. The "shingle" refers to the toast, providing a base for the flavorful gravy.

Its origins remain somewhat murky, but it's widely believed to have gained popularity during the Great Depression and World War II. The inexpensive ingredients made it a budget-friendly meal, perfect for stretching rations. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and satisfying richness.

The History of Shit on a Shingle

While the exact origins of SOS are debated, its rise to prominence coincided with periods of economic hardship. The use of inexpensive, readily available ingredients like chipped beef made it a practical choice for families. The name itself, while crude, likely reflects its humble beginnings and the resourcefulness of those who enjoyed it.

Many believe its popularity exploded in army mess halls and military bases. The quick cooking time and readily available ingredients made it a practical choice for mass feeding. From there, it made its way into home kitchens and eventually into nostalgic memories for many.

Why is it called Shit on a Shingle?

The name is undeniably off-putting. Its origins are uncertain but likely reflect its humble, inexpensive ingredients. Some believe the "shingle" refers to the layered nature of the toast under the gravy. Whatever the reason, the name is certainly memorable, though most recipes today refer to it as "Chipped Beef on Toast" to attract a wider audience.

How to Make Shit on a Shingle

This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and cooking time.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
4 ounces chipped beef, thinly sliced
4 slices of your favorite bread, toasted

Instructions:

Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Make the roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth.
Add milk and seasonings: Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
Add chipped beef: Add the chipped beef and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve: Pour the chipped beef gravy over the toasted bread slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations on the Classic Recipe

While the classic recipe is simple and delicious, there are many ways to personalize your SOS:

Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Add herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor.
Creamier sauce: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, creamier gravy.
Gourmet touch: Use high-quality, aged chipped beef for a more sophisticated flavor.
Different bread: Experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or rye.

Shit on a Shingle: A Comfort Food Classic

Despite its unappetizing name, Shit on a Shingle remains a beloved comfort food. Its simple preparation, affordable ingredients, and satisfying flavor have secured its place in culinary history. So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal, give this classic a try – you might be surprised at how much you enjoy it! Remember to call it by its more palatable name, "Chipped Beef on Toast," if you're entertaining company. But amongst friends, "SOS" is just fine!