Cracker Barrel Ham and Red Eye Gravy

Cracker Barrel uses country ham. This is a lighter and less salty version of the original.

Cracker Barrel is well-known for its delicious comfort food, and one of their popular dishes is the Ham and Red Eye Gravy. This classic Southern dish combines tender ham steak with a flavorful coffee-based gravy that adds a unique twist to the meal.

The ham steak used in this recipe is typically about ¼ inch thick, providing a hearty and satisfying portion. The steak is cooked in a skillet with melted margarine until it reaches a beautiful golden brown color and is cooked to perfection.

Once the ham steak is cooked, it is removed from the skillet, and that’s when the magic happens with the red eye gravy. In the same skillet, strong black coffee and water are added to the rich ham juices left behind. The combination of the coffee and the savory ham flavors creates a distinct and savory gravy that adds depth and complexity to the dish.

The coffee and water mixture is brought to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together and the gravy to thicken slightly. The resulting red eye gravy is poured over the ham steak, enhancing its taste and providing a delightful contrast of flavors.

The combination of the smoky and salty ham with the slightly bitter and aromatic notes of the coffee gravy creates a harmonious balance that is sure to please the taste buds. This dish is often served alongside traditional Southern breakfast items like biscuits, grits, or fried eggs, making it a hearty and satisfying meal any time of day.

Cracker Barrel’s Ham and Red Eye Gravy is a beloved dish that showcases the flavors of the South in a simple yet delicious way. It’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region and a favorite among those who appreciate comforting and flavorful home-cooked meals.

SERVES: 2

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (¼ ″ -thick) ham steak
• 2 tablespoons margarine
• 2 tablespoons strong black coffee
• 4 tablespoons water

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of margarine in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ham steak to the skillet and fry it for 6-8 minutes, or until it is cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the ham from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of strong black coffee and 4 tablespoons of water to the skillet with the ham juice.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the gravy has reached a boil, remove it from the heat.
6. Serve the coffee gravy over the ham steak.