Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy
Savory, smoky, and full of Southern charm, this Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy is a classic comfort dish packed with bold flavor. Salty, pan-fried country ham is paired with a rich, coffee-infused red-eye gravy that adds a unique and delicious depth.
Ingredients
- For the Ham
- 4 slices country ham (about 1/4-inch thick)
- 1–2 tbsp butter or bacon drippings (optional, for frying)
- For the Red-Eye Gravy
- 1/2 cup strong black coffee (freshly brewed)
- 1/2 cup water (or chicken broth for richer flavor)
- 1–2 tsp brown sugar (optional, to balance bitterness)
- 1 tbsp ham drippings (from the pan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham : Heat : A large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. If your ham is very lean, add 1–2 tbsp butter or bacon drippings.Place ham slices in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and heated through.Remove ham from skillet and keep warm.
- Make the Red-Eye Gravy : Carefully pour off most of the fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tbsp along with the browned bits.Over medium heat, pour in black coffee and water (or chicken broth).Stir, scraping the pan to loosen flavorful bits. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly reduced.Taste and add brown sugar if desired to soften the coffee’s bitterness.
- Serve : Place ham slices on plates and spoon red-eye gravy over the top or serve it in a small pitcher on the side.