Here’s a list of ingredients for **Grits with Country Ham and Red Eye Gravy**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help you rank better for Southern comfort food recipes:
- **Stone-ground grits** (or instant grits for a quicker option)
- **Water** (or chicken broth for added flavor)
- **Salt** (to taste, for seasoning the grits)
- **Butter** (unsalted, for richness in the grits)
- **Heavy cream** (optional, for creamy grits)
- **Country ham** (cured and smoked, thinly sliced)
- **Black coffee** (strong brewed, for authentic red eye gravy)
- **Ham drippings** (from cooking the country ham, for flavor)
- **Brown sugar** (optional, to balance the gravy's bitterness)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground, for seasoning)
- **Green onions** (optional, for garnish)
- **Hot sauce** (optional, for a spicy kick)
This recipe combines **Southern grits**, **country ham**, and **red eye gravy** for a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Use these keywords in your content to attract food enthusiasts searching for traditional Southern recipes!
Steps
# How to Make Grits with Country Ham and Red Eye Gravy: A Southern Classic
If you're craving a hearty Southern breakfast, look no further than **grits with country ham and red eye gravy**. This iconic dish combines creamy grits, savory country ham, and a tangy, coffee-infused gravy for a flavor-packed meal. Follow these detailed steps to create this Southern classic at home.
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## **Ingredients**
- **For the Grits:**
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier grits)
- **For the Country Ham and Red Eye Gravy:**
- 4 slices country ham (or thick-cut ham steak)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or bacon grease
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
- 1/2 cup water or ham stock
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Grits**
1. **Boil the Liquid:** In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
2. **Add the Grits:** Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits to prevent clumping. Reduce the heat to low.
3. **Simmer:** Cook the grits for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are thick and creamy. If the grits become too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
4. **Season:** Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and heavy cream (if using). Keep warm while you prepare the ham and gravy.
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### **2. Cook the Country Ham**
1. **Heat the Pan:** In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or bacon grease over medium heat.
2. **Sear the Ham:** Add 4 slices of country ham and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the ham and set aside.
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### **3. Make the Red Eye Gravy**
1. **Deglaze the Pan:** In the same skillet, pour in 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee and 1/2 cup of water or ham stock. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. **Simmer:** Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional) and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens.
3. **Taste and Adjust:** Adjust the seasoning if needed. The gravy should have a balanced flavor of salty, tangy, and slightly sweet.
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### **4. Assemble the Dish**
1. **Plate the Grits:** Spoon a generous portion of creamy grits onto a plate or bowl.
2. **Add the Ham:** Place a slice or two of country ham on top of the grits.
3. **Drizzle the Gravy:** Pour the red eye gravy over the ham and grits, allowing it to soak into the dish.
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## **Tips for Success**
- Use **stone-ground grits** for the best texture and flavor.
- For a richer gravy, substitute water with ham stock or chicken broth.
- If country ham is too salty for your taste, soak it in water for 30 minutes before cooking.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Dish**
This **grits with country ham and red eye gravy** recipe is a Southern staple that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The creamy grits pair beautifully with the salty ham and tangy gravy, creating a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.
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## **SEO Keywords**
- Grits with country ham
- Red eye gravy recipe
- Southern breakfast ideas
- How to make grits
- Country ham and gravy
- Creamy grits recipe
- Southern comfort food
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Enjoy this classic Southern dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weekend breakfast, this recipe delivers authentic flavors and hearty satisfaction.