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Close up view of country ham with red eye gravy

Red Eye Gravy with Country Ham

Classically Southern red eye gravy combines country ham drippings with bold, black coffee and creamy butter for a rich gravy that perfectly compliments biscuits and grits.
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Yield:2 servings

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Plate
  • Silicone spatula
  • whisk

Ingredients

  • 6 ounces country ham
  • 1 tablespoon butter divided
  • ½ cup brewed black coffee strong
  • ¼ cup chicken broth

Instructions

  • In large skillet, warm ½ tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add country ham and cook until browned, approximately 3 minutes per side.
    Country ham in cast iron skillet
  • Transfer browned ham to plate and set aside. Pour coffee into skillet and use spatula to scrape up any browned bits on bottom of skillet.
    Black coffee for red eye gravy in cast iron skillet
  • Pour in chicken broth. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until gravy is thickened. Add in remaining ½ tablespoon butter and whisk until melted.
    Red eye gravy in cast iron skillet
  • Serve gravy warm over or on the side of browned ham on biscuits, similar to an au jus.
    Ham and biscuits with red eye gravy on white plate

Notes

  • Use an unflavored, freshly brewed black coffee for the best flavor and results.
  • Make it Lactose Free: Use ghee instead of dairy.
  • Make it Dairy Free: Use a dairy-free butter.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1serving | Calories: 259cal | Protein: 19g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 1165mg | Potassium: 279mg | Total Carbs: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 176IU | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg
Recipe By:Jasmine Comer