Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy – A Classic Southern Breakfast
If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly captures the charm and bold flavors of the American South, look no further than Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy. This hearty recipe combines the savory, salty richness of dry-cured country ham with a uniquely Southern gravy made from black coffee. The result? A bold, smoky, and slightly bitter sauce that pairs beautifully with the salty ham for an unforgettable breakfast.
A Little History
The origins of Red-Eye Gravy date back to rural Southern kitchens, especially among farmers who needed a strong and energizing breakfast before a long day in the fields. The gravy gets its name from its appearance: the dark coffee creates a rich, almost black base, while the ham drippings form an oily ring on top that resembles a “red eye.” Traditionally, it’s served alongside biscuits or grits to soak up every drop.
Ingredients
To make an authentic Southern-style Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy, you’ll need:
- 4 slices country ham (thick-cut and traditionally cured)
- ½ cup freshly brewed black coffee (strong and unsweetened)
- ¼ cup water or chicken stock (for added flavor and to mellow the coffee)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for a richer, silkier gravy)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Skillet
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Cast iron is perfect for this recipe because it gives the ham a golden crust and holds onto heat, allowing the flavors to develop deeply.
2. Cook the Ham
Place the slices of country ham into the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. The ham will naturally release some of its fat, which is the base for your gravy.
Tip: There’s no need for oil — country ham has enough fat to sear beautifully on its own.
3. Remove the Ham and Deglaze the Pan
Transfer the cooked ham slices to a plate, but do not clean the skillet. The browned bits stuck to the bottom (called “fond”) are the key to a flavorful Red-Eye Gravy.
4. Make the Gravy
Pour ½ cup of hot black coffee and ¼ cup water or chicken stock into the skillet. As the liquid sizzles, use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful bits from the bottom.
5. Simmer and Enrich
Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it slightly reduces. For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter just before serving.
6. Serve
Pour the hot Red-Eye Gravy over the ham slices and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed with buttery biscuits or a side of creamy grits to soak up the gravy.
Serving Tips
- Pair with fried eggs for a complete Southern breakfast.
- Serve with roasted potatoes or cornbread for a heartier meal.
- Add a drizzle of maple syrup if you want to balance the salty ham with a hint of sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor: The bold coffee and salty ham create a taste unlike any other breakfast dish.
- Quick and Easy: Only a few ingredients and less than 15 minutes to prepare.
- Tradition on a Plate: A taste of Southern history and comfort in every bite.
Final Note:
Once you try Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy, you’ll understand why it has remained a Southern breakfast staple for generations. The combination of savory ham and coffee-infused gravy will wake up your taste buds and start your day off right.