Red-Eye Gravy
A classic Southern gravy made with just two essential ingredients: country ham drippings and strong black coffee. This savory, thin sauce is the perfect companion for country ham, grits, or fluffy biscuits.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Render Fat from Ham
- b.Place a large cast-iron skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
- c.Add the country ham slices and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
- d.Remove the ham from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Do not wipe the skillet. You should have about 2 tablespoons of rendered drippings and browned bits (fond) left in the pan.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Deglaze the Skillet
- b.With the skillet still on medium heat, carefully pour the hot coffee into the pan. It will sizzle and steam.
- c.Use a wooden spoon or flat-edged spatula to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, dissolving them into the coffee.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer and Finish
- b.Bring the coffee mixture to a steady simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the gravy to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld.
- c.If using, whisk in the unsalted butter until it melts completely, adding a touch of richness.
- d.Season with freshly ground black pepper. Taste the gravy before adding any salt, as the ham drippings are extremely salty. Add a tiny pinch of salt only if absolutely necessary.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve Immediately
- b.Pour the hot gravy into a small pitcher or gravy boat.
- c.Serve at once over the cooked country ham, creamy grits, or fluffy biscuits.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a cast-iron skillet for the best results; it retains heat well and creates an excellent fond (browned bits) for maximum flavor.
- 2The quality of your coffee matters. Use a good, strong brew. Avoid instant coffee or weak coffee, as the flavor will be lacking.
- 3Red-eye gravy is traditionally thin, almost like an au jus. Do not attempt to thicken it with flour or cornstarch.
- 4If your ham is very lean and doesn't render enough fat (at least 1 tablespoon), add a tablespoon of butter or bacon grease to the pan before adding the coffee.
- 5If the gravy tastes too bitter from the coffee, a tiny pinch of brown sugar can help balance the flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce along with the black pepper for a spicy kick.
Sweet & SavorySweet & Savory
Whisk in 1 teaspoon of brown sugar or maple syrup at the end to balance the coffee's bitterness and the ham's saltiness.
With AromaticsWith Aromatics
Sauté 1 tablespoon of finely minced shallot in the ham drippings for a minute until softened before deglazing with the coffee.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Boosts Mental Alertness
The caffeine from the brewed coffee can help improve focus, concentration, and overall mental alertness, making it a classic breakfast eye-opener.
Source of Antioxidants
Coffee is a primary source of antioxidants in many diets. These compounds help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
There are a few theories. The most popular one is that when the gravy settles, the fat forms a circle on top of the darker coffee liquid, resembling a red eye. Another theory suggests it was a morning 'eye-opener' due to the caffeine.