Country Ham and Red-Eye Gravy

Sliced country ham (uncooked, 1/4" thick)
2 Tbsp. oil
1 cup black brewed coffee
1 tsp. sugar (optional)


Place oil in a cast iron skillet and heat on medium. Add ham slices and cook approximately 8 minutes on each side. Remove ham to a warm dish.

Leave drippings in skillet and add coffee. Add sugar if desired. Cover and simmer for 5-10 minutes.

Serve with ham and homemade biscuits.

The term "red-eye" supposedly comes from the little red circles or "eyes" of grease that form in the gravy on the plate. I have also heard that a drop of Tabasco sauce was added to the gravy, thus forming the red-eye.