Get ready to transport your kitchen into a Southern culinary paradise with this legendary Ham and Red Eye Gravy recipe that's been warming hearts and satisfying hunger for generations! This isn't just a meal; it's a delicious piece of Southern heritage that combines the rich, smoky flavor of ham with a bold coffee-infused gravy that will make your mouth water and your soul rejoice. Whether you're a Southern food enthusiast or a curious home cook looking to explore new flavor territories, this recipe promises to deliver an unforgettable dining experience that's both rustic and refined.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked ham, sliced
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove ham slices from refrigerator and allow to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and allow it to melt completely, coating the bottom of the pan.
- Place ham slices into the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until edges are slightly crispy and golden brown.
- Remove ham slices from skillet and set aside on a warm plate, keeping them covered to retain heat.
- In the same skillet with remaining butter and ham drippings, sprinkle flour and whisk quickly to create a light roux, cooking for approximately 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Slowly pour in the strong brewed coffee, continuously whisking to prevent lumps and ensure smooth consistency.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the gravy for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens to desired consistency.
- Season gravy with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed.
- Pour hot gravy over the seared ham slices, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Serve immediately with traditional Southern sides like buttermilk biscuits or grits.
Tips
- Coffee Selection Matters: Use strong, freshly brewed coffee for the most robust flavor. Avoid instant coffee, as it can make the gravy taste weak or bitter.
- Cast-Iron Skillet Recommendation: A traditional cast-iron skillet is ideal for this recipe, as it provides even heat distribution and helps develop deeper flavors.
- Ham Temperature Tip: Letting the ham come to room temperature before cooking ensures more even searing and prevents the meat from becoming tough.
- Roux Technique: When making the roux, whisk constantly and watch the color carefully. You want a light golden hue to prevent burning and ensure a smooth gravy.
- Gravy Consistency: If your gravy is too thick, add a little more coffee. If it's too thin, continue simmering or add a tiny bit more flour.
- Seasoning Advice: Taste your gravy before serving and adjust salt and pepper carefully, as ham can already be quite salty.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature, paired with classic Southern sides like buttermilk biscuits or creamy grits.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 322kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 86mg
