Growing up in the South, I have always been surrounded by delicious and comforting Southern recipes. One recipe that stands out to me is Red Eye Gravy with Coffee. This unique and flavorful gravy is a staple at many Southern breakfast tables, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. In this article, I will share with you the steps to create this mouthwatering dish that will surely impress your family and friends.
What is Red Eye Gravy?
Red Eye Gravy is a traditional Southern recipe that has been passed down through generations. It is a simple and flavorful sauce made from the drippings left in the skillet after frying country ham. Unlike traditional gravies, Red Eye Gravy doesn’t require any flour or heavy cream. Instead, it gets its distinctive flavor from two key ingredients – coffee and bacon drippings.
The Key Ingredients
To make Red Eye Gravy, you will need the following ingredients:
1. Country Ham Slices: Country ham is a type of cured and smoked ham that is popular in the South. The saltiness of the ham pairs perfectly with the savory and slightly bitter flavors of the gravy.
2. Strong Black Coffee: Coffee is the star ingredient of this recipe. It adds depth and richness to the gravy, balancing out the saltiness of the ham.
3. Bacon Drippings: Bacon drippings are essential to give the gravy its smoky and flavorful base. Make sure to save the drippings from cooking bacon to use in this recipe.
4. Water: Water is used to dilute the strong coffee and create the perfect consistency for the gravy.
5. Salt and Pepper: These common seasonings are used to enhance the flavors of the gravy and bring all the ingredients together.
How to Make Red Eye Gravy with Coffee
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Red Eye Gravy:
Step 1: Fry the Country Ham
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the country ham slices and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. The ham will release its flavorful drippings, which will be the base of our gravy. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
Reduce the heat to low and carefully pour in the strong black coffee into the skillet. Be cautious as the coffee may splatter. Stir the coffee and ham drippings to combine them thoroughly. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.
Step 3: Add Water and Seasoning
Next, add water to the skillet, combining it with the coffee mixture. This will help dilute the strong flavors and create a smoother gravy. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the country ham can be quite salty, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Step 4: Simmer and Reduce
Allow the gravy to simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and the gravy to thicken to the desired consistency. Keep an eye on it to avoid overreducing, as the gravy should still be pourable.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Red Eye Gravy has reached the desired consistency, it is ready to be enjoyed. Pour the hot gravy over the fried country ham slices, allowing it to soak into the meat. Serve the dish alongside biscuits, grits, or even eggs for a hearty and delicious Southern breakfast.
Additional Tips and Variations
Here are a few additional tips and variations to consider when making Red Eye Gravy:
1. Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on just a few key ingredients, using high-quality country ham and strong coffee is essential. This will ensure the best flavors in your gravy.
2. Adjust the Coffee Strength: The intensity of the coffee can vary depending on personal preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, use a slightly weaker coffee or reduce the amount used.
3. Add a Touch of Sweetness: To balance out the savory flavors, you can add a touch of sweetness to the gravy. Some people like to stir in a teaspoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup towards the end of cooking.
4. Serve with Grits: Red Eye Gravy and grits are a match made in heaven. The creamy texture of the grits pairs perfectly with the rich and savory gravy, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, Red Eye Gravy with Coffee is a delightful Southern recipe that brings together the smoky and salty flavors of country ham with the rich bitterness of coffee. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this traditional dish in your own kitchen. So, why not give it a try and experience the true taste of the South? Enjoy!