Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights? Then look no further than Military SOS! This simple recipe, a staple in military kitchens for its speed and deliciousness, is a fantastic example of how delicious healthy meals can be. Forget complicated cooking techniques and long grocery lists – this one is all about simple ingredients and maximum flavor. It's a true champion of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a comforting and flavorful dish.
What is Military SOS?
Military SOS, short for "Shit on a Shingle," is a hearty and comforting dish consisting of creamy sausage gravy served over toast or biscuits. While the name might be a little rough around the edges, the taste is anything but! It's a classic example of homemade cooking at its best, utilizing readily available ingredients to create a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your preference!)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 slices of your favorite bread (Texas toast is traditional, but any bread works!)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. This step builds the foundation of flavor for our delicious dish.
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Make the Gravy: Once the sausage is browned, sprinkle the flour over the sausage and stir constantly for about 1 minute. This helps create a smooth and flavorful gravy.
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Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the gravy thickens and comes to a gentle simmer. This careful process ensures a smooth, lump-free gravy.
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Season and Simmer: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. Adding butter at this stage adds a lovely richness.
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Serve it Up: Toast your bread slices (or warm your biscuits). Spoon the creamy sausage gravy generously over the toast. Serve immediately and enjoy this quick dinner idea!
Tips for the Best Military SOS:
- Don't rush the milk: Adding the milk gradually and whisking constantly is key to preventing lumps in your gravy.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. You could also add other spices like garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Use different bread: While Texas toast is traditional, feel free to experiment with other types of bread, like sourdough or biscuits.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: For a healthier twist, stir in some chopped vegetables like onions, peppers, or mushrooms while browning the sausage.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a spicier kick.
- Cheese please!: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the gravy before serving for extra cheesy goodness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients you use, but a general estimate for one serving of Military SOS (using 2 slices of toast and about 1/3 of the gravy) is around 400-500 calories. The exact nutritional content will depend on the type of sausage and bread used.
This simple recipe is a perfect example of a delicious and satisfying meal that doesn't require a lot of time or effort. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you need a comforting and flavorful meal on the table quickly. Enjoy!