Southern Fried Ham With Red Eye Gravy
Southern fried ham with rich red eye gravy offers savory, smoky flavors paired with a hearty, comforting sauce, perfect for hearty gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place lard and ham in a cold iron skillet; cover and cook slowly over medium heat for 20 minutes, turning frequently.
- Remove lid. Cook 5 minutes longer.
- Remove ham; drain.
- Add 1 cup cold water to the drippings in the skillet.
- Bring to a boil; pour the gravy over the ham.
- Serve immediately with hot, homemade biscuits.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use a good quality cured ham; smoked varieties add depth. If you don't have lard, bacon grease or vegetable oil can be substituted, though the flavor will differ slightly. For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of coffee to the gravy for a richer taste, reminiscent of traditional Southern red eye gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Southern Fried Ham with Red Eye Gravy alongside hot, homemade biscuits for a true Southern breakfast experience. It pairs beautifully with fresh greens or a side of scrambled eggs. For an added treat, consider including Adam'S Beans On Toast(English Style) to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ham in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat until warmed through, ensuring it doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Fried Ham With Red Eye Gravy contains roughly 93 calories, with 3g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 9g 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 fresh ham instead of cured ham for this recipe?
Using fresh ham is not recommended as it lacks the same flavor and saltiness that cured ham provides. Cured ham is essential for achieving the authentic taste of this dish. If you must use fresh ham, consider marinating it in a salty brine before cooking.
What can I serve with red eye gravy aside from biscuits?
Red eye gravy is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Try it with grits for a hearty breakfast or drizzled over fried green tomatoes for a delicious brunch option. It also complements pork recipes very well, adding a savory touch.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy. You can also sauté some chopped jalapeños with the ham for an extra kick. Adjust the spice to your liking for a personalized flavor.
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).