If you’re looking for a flavorful and savory option to add to your meals, you may want to consider trying a cup of redeye gravy. With just 106 calories, this classic Southern delicacy packs a punch and can be used in a number of different ways.
Redeye gravy is typically made with coffee and ham drippings, which gives it a unique and bold taste. In addition to coffee and ham, some recipes may use other ingredients such as garlic, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce. At its core, redeye gravy is a versatile addition to any dish and can also be used as a marinade or a dipping sauce.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the history, nutritional benefits, and ways to enjoy redeye gravy.
What is Redeye Gravy?
Redeye gravy is a southern style sauce that is typically made from ham drippings and coffee. The origin of the name is unclear, but some believe it was named after the appearance of the sauce due to the red color imparted by coffee. The gravy is usually served alongside country ham, biscuits, or fried chicken. Over the years, redeye gravy has become a staple in Southern cuisine, and it remains popular to this day.
Calories in Redeye Gravy
A single cup of redeye gravy contains about 106 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie sauce. However, like most gravies and sauces, it is high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation. If you’re looking to reduce your caloric intake while still enjoying the taste of redeye gravy, you may consider making adjustments to the recipe to make it a bit healthier.
How is Redeye Gravy made?
Redeye gravy typically consists of ham drippings, black coffee, and a few other seasonings. There are a number of variations on the recipe, and some people may add garlic, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce to the mix to add a little more flavor. To make redeye gravy, start by frying up some country ham in a skillet. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Next, add black coffee to the skillet and whisk it in with the ham drippings. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the gravy has reduced and thickened slightly. Finally, pour the gravy over the ham and enjoy!
Nutritional Benefits of Redeye Gravy
Redeye gravy contains several key vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and B vitamins. It is also low in calories and fat, which makes it a good option for those looking to eat healthier. One of the primary benefits of redeye gravy is its ability to add flavor and depth to meals without adding a lot of additional calories. Because it is made from wholesome ingredients like coffee and ham drippings, it can be a healthier alternative to pre-packaged sauces and gravies.
Ways to consume Redeye Gravy
Redeye gravy can be used in a variety of different ways to add flavor to your meals. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add it to your favorite breakfast foods like biscuits, eggs, or grits
- Use it as a marinade for chicken, pork, or beef
- Drizzle it over cooked vegetables like green beans or collard greens
- Use it as a dipping sauce for fried chicken or other fried foods
Redeye Gravy vs Other Gravy
Redeye gravy is a unique and flavorful alternative to other types of gravies. While most gravies are made from meat drippings, flour, and broth, redeye gravy uses coffee as its main ingredient, which gives it a bold and distinctive taste. It is also typically lower in calories and fat than other types of gravies, which makes it a healthier option for those looking to manage their weight.
Redeye Gravy for Weight Watching
While redeye gravy is lower in calories and fat than many other types of gravies, it is still high in sodium. If you are watching your weight, it is important to consume redeye gravy in moderation. Additionally, you may want to consider making adjustments to the recipe to make it a bit healthier. For example, you could use a low-sodium broth instead of ham drippings, or use a non-fat milk instead of cream to thicken the gravy. With a few simple tweaks, you can enjoy the taste of redeye gravy without compromising your health and weight management goals.
Is Redeye Gravy good for Health?
Redeye gravy is a healthier option than many other types of gravies, as it is lower in calories and fat. However, it is still high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation. The coffee used in redeye gravy adds a number of health benefits to the mix, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Additionally, ham is a good source of protein and other important nutrients such as iron and vitamin B12.
History of Redeye Gravy
The origins of redeye gravy are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the South in the early 19th century. According to one legend, redeye gravy was invented by a cook who was tasked with preparing breakfast for a group of weary travelers. The cook didn’t have any milk to make gravy, so he used coffee instead, thus creating the iconic dish that we know today.
Redeye Gravy- A Southern Delicacy
Redeye gravy is a true Southern delicacy with a rich history and a loyal following. Many Southerners consider redeye gravy to be a staple of their cuisine, and it is often served at family gatherings and holiday meals. Whether you are a lifelong fan of redeye gravy or you are trying it for the first time, there’s no denying that this classic sauce is a delicious and versatile addition to any meal.
Redeye gravy is a true Southern delicacy with a rich history and a loyal following.
FAQs About Redeye Gravy
1. What is Redeye Gravy?
Redeye Gravy is a Southern dish made from ham drippings, coffee, and sometimes flour. It is typically served over ham and biscuits.
2. How many calories are in Redeye Gravy?
One cup of Redeye Gravy contains approximately 106 calories.
3. Is Redeye Gravy healthy?
Redeye Gravy is high in fat and sodium due to the ham drippings, so it should be consumed in moderation. However, the coffee used in the gravy can provide some health benefits such as antioxidants and an energy boost.
4. Why is it called Redeye Gravy?
Redeye Gravy is named after the reddish color the coffee gives the gravy. It is also said to have been a favored dish of train engineers who would splash coffee onto their ham to wake up and stay alert during long shifts.
5. What are some variations of Redeye Gravy?
Some variations of Redeye Gravy include adding spices, such as cayenne pepper, or substituting the coffee with cola or beer. Some also like to serve it over chicken, pork chops, or fried green tomatoes instead of ham.