Country Ham 'N Red-Eye Gravy
Country Ham 'N Red-Eye Gravy offers a savory combination of salty ham and rich coffee flavors, perfect for breakfast or brunch enthusiasts seeking hearty Southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak ham in cold water and sugar for at least 1/2 hour.
- Wash the ham well and dry.
- Fry the ham in oil until browned.
- Remove the ham from the pan and keep warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using smoked ham instead of regular for a richer taste. If you don't have black coffee, a strong brewed tea can work as a substitute for a different flavor profile. When frying, ensure the oil is hot to achieve a nice browning on the ham. Remember to drain excess oil after frying to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Country Ham 'N Red-Eye Gravy with fluffy biscuits or cornbread to soak up the flavorful gravy. A side of sautéed greens or creamy grits pairs beautifully with this dish. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the ham.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or coffee to keep them moist. Cover the skillet to retain steam, heating until warmed through without drying out the ham.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Ham 'N Red-Eye Gravy contains roughly 351 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 39g fat.
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 other types of meat instead of ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other meats like turkey or chicken, though the cooking time and flavor will differ. If using turkey, opt for a smoked variety for a similar flavor profile, but adjust the soaking time and frying to ensure it cooks properly.
What can I do if I don't have sugar for the soaking process?
If you're out of sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. Both will add a touch of sweetness and enhance the overall flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount since honey and syrup can be sweeter than granulated sugar.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
To thicken the red-eye gravy, you can whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with cold water after adding the coffee. Simmer for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can reduce the gravy over low heat to concentrate the flavors and thicken it naturally.
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).