Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy

Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy recipe videos

Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy is a classic Southern breakfast staple featuring salty, dry-cured ham pan-fried and served with a thin gravy made from the drippings and black coffee. The dish typically includes thinly sliced country ham, brewed coffee, and sometimes a bit of sugar or butter to balance the intense saltiness. Originating in the rural American South, it remains a beloved comfort food often served with grits, biscuits, or eggs.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in protein and fat, with minimal carbohydrates, providing a substantial and savory meal. A typical serving of ham with gravy can range from 300 to 500 calories, depending on the cut and portion size, and offers key nutrients like iron, B vitamins, and sodium.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	480 kcal
Protein	32 g
Carbs	2 g
Fat	38 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	2100 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Phosphorus	350 mg
Zinc	4.5 mg
Iron	2.0 mg
Niacin (B3)	8.0 mg
Vitamin B6	0.5 mg
Selenium	45 µg
Cholesterol	110 mg

Per 1 serving (170 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The 'red-eye' in the gravy refers to its dark, coffee-infused color, which was traditionally used to stretch the ham drippings into a flavorful sauce. Nutritionally, the combination of salty ham and bitter coffee creates a unique flavor profile that is both energizing and deeply satisfying, reflecting the resourcefulness of Southern cooking.