Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Favorite Recipe
Franklin D. Roosevelt, also known as FDR, was the 32nd President of the United States. He is famously known for leading the country through the Great Depression and World War II. But aside from his impactful presidency, FDR was also known to have a love for food and cooking. In fact, he had a favorite recipe that he loved to make and enjoy on special occasions. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at FDR’s favorite recipe and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Overview
The recipe that Franklin D. Roosevelt loved to make was for a dish called “Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast”, also known as “S.O.S.” which stands for “shit on a shingle”. The dish was commonly served in the military and FDR grew to love it during his time as Assistant Secretary of the Navy. He often cooked it for his family and even served it to visiting guests at the White House. This dish may not sound fancy, but it was a favorite of FDR and became a staple in many American households during that time.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 8 ounces dried beef, shredded or chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted bread slices
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and stir until well combined to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk and beef broth, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
- Add shredded/chopped beef and continue to stir until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Serve the creamed chipped beef over toasted bread slices.
Pro Tips
- If using canned beef broth, opt for low-sodium to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute half and half for milk.
- For added depth of flavor, you can also add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.
Safety Precautions
Cooking with hot oil or butter can be dangerous, so it’s important to take precautions to avoid accidents. When making this dish, make sure to use oven mitts and use caution when adding ingredients to the hot pan. Keep children and pets away from the kitchen while cooking.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
If you’re new to cooking, following a step-by-step guide can help you make this dish successfully. Here’s a simple guide to help you recreate FDR’s favorite recipe in your own kitchen.
- First, gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. Make sure you have a medium saucepan, measuring cups and spoons, and a stove.
- Melt the butter in the saucepan over medium heat.
- Add flour gradually and stir until well combined. This creates the roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Slowly pour in the milk and beef broth, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened. This may take a few minutes, so be patient.
- Add the shredded or chopped beef and continue to stir until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the beef may already be salty, so taste before adding more salt.
- Toast bread slices in a toaster or in the oven.
- Serve the creamed chipped beef mixture on top of the toasted bread slices and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Premium Results
If you want to take this dish to the next level, here are some tips from experts that can help elevate the flavor and presentation of the creamed chipped beef:
- For a more traditional military-style SOS, use ground beef instead of dried beef.
- Add a splash of sherry or white wine to the mixture for a richer flavor.
- For a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat or multigrain bread instead of white bread.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
- Serve with a side of sautéed vegetables or home fries for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions that may come to mind when making FDR’s favorite recipe:
Q: Can I use any type of bread for this dish?
A: Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer. However, FDR himself often served this dish with toasted white bread.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the creamed chipped beef in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. However, it’s best to toast the bread right before serving to keep it crispy.
Q: What side dishes go well with this dish?
A: This dish pairs well with roasted or sautéed vegetables, home fries, or a side salad.
In conclusion, “Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast” was Franklin D. Roosevelt’s favorite recipe. It may not be a fancy dish, but it holds a special place in American history and continues to be enjoyed by many. With this step-by-step guide and expert tips, you can recreate FDR’s favorite dish in your own kitchen and experience a taste of history. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why it was FDR’s go-to comfort food?
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