Classic Southern red-eye gravy is traditionally made by simply adding a little water or brewed coffee to a skillet in which slices of country ham have been fried and deglazing it by scraping the bottom with a spatula or spoon. When, however, grits are featured as the main item in a hearty breakfast, a deluxe version of the gravy, such as this one, is always in order. Typically, these grits would be served with eggs, maybe a few fried green tomatoes, biscuits, and some form of fresh fruit. I defy even the most uninitiated Yankee not to gobble up every morsel.
Makes 4 servings
INGREDIENTS:
FOR THE GRAVY
- 2 strips bacon
- 8 ounces country ham, cut into bits
- 1 scallion (part of green top included), minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage, crumbled
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 cup brewed strong coffee
- 1⁄2 cup water
FOR THE GRITS
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup water
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 cup regular grits
INSTRUCTIONS:
- To make the gravy, fry the bacon in a skillet over moderate heat till crisp, drain on paper towels, and crumble. Add the ham to the skillet with the bacon grease and cook, stirring, till slightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the scallion, sage, and pepper, and stir for about 1 minute. Sprinkle the flour over the top and cook, stirring, till nicely browned, about 2 minutes. Add the coffee and water, cook, stirring, till the gravy is thick, about 2 minutes. Keep warm.
- To make the grits, combine the milk, water, and salt in a heavy saucepan and bring to a boil. Gradually add the grits, stirring, and cook, stirring constantly, till thick and creamy, 15 to 20 minutes.
- To serve, spoon a mound of grits on each serving plate, spoon equal amounts of the gravy over the top, and sprinkle each serving with crumbled bacon.
