Country Ham And Red Eye Gravy
Country ham paired with rich red eye gravy offers a savory, smoky flavor profile perfect for breakfast or brunch, especially enjoyed over biscuits or grits. Appeals to comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the country cured ham until browned in an iron or heavy skillet.
- Remove the ham from the skillet.
- Pour the rendered ham grease into a bowl.
- Pour hot coffee into the hot skillet used to cook the ham.
- Pour the hot coffee from the skillet into the bowl with ham grease to make gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use a well-cured country ham. If you want to reduce sodium, rinse the ham before frying. You can substitute decaf coffee if preferred, or use broth for a different taste. Pairing the gravy with biscuits or cornbread enhances the dish. Experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the country ham alongside fluffy scrambled eggs or on a biscuit for breakfast. For lunch, pair it with creamy grits or a side of collard greens. This dish also pairs beautifully with Hearty Stuffed Peppers, providing a hearty meal. Drizzle the red eye gravy over the ham just before serving for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The red eye gravy can be refrigerated separately and reheated on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or coffee to loosen it. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Ham And Red Eye Gravy contains roughly 250 calories, with 8g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Yes, while country cured ham is traditional, you can use any smoked ham or even a honey-baked ham. However, the flavor profile will change slightly, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
What can I serve with country ham and red eye gravy?
This dish pairs well with southern staples like biscuits, fried eggs, or grits. You could also serve it with a refreshing salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
How do I know when the ham is cooked properly?
Cook the ham until it is nicely browned and heated through, typically about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).