Here’s a classic Southern favorite — Country Ham with Redeye Gravy. The salty, savory ham pairs perfectly with a simple coffee-based gravy.
🥓 Country Ham with Redeye Gravy
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked country ham steak or slice (about 1 inch thick per serving)
- 2–3 tbsp drippings or butter
- ½ cup strong brewed black coffee
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the ham
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ham and cook 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove ham and set aside.
- Leave the pan drippings in the skillet.
2️⃣ Make the redeye gravy
- Sprinkle brown sugar into the hot drippings if desired.
- Slowly pour in coffee, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
- Simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Season with black pepper to taste.
3️⃣ Serve
- Pour gravy over ham and serve immediately.
- Classic accompaniments: grits, biscuits, or fried eggs.
🔥 Tips & Variations
- Red-eye gravy is traditionally thin and slightly bitter; don’t over-sweeten.
- Use the same skillet drippings from pan-fried country ham for the richest flavor.
- Add a splash of water if coffee is too strong or the gravy is too thick.
- Pair with fried potatoes or sautéed greens for a hearty Southern breakfast or brunch.
I can also give you:
- Oven-baked country ham with redeye gravy
- Slow-cooker style Southern ham and gravy
- Maple or brown sugar variation for a slightly sweeter gravy
Do you want the classic skillet version or an oven-baked hands-off version?
