Alabama Grilled Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy

Introduction

Enjoy this Alabama-style Grilled Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy, cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. A salty, crispy ham slice paired with a rich, coffee-based gravy makes for an irresistible Southern classic.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of country ham (bone-in preferred)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup freshly brewed black coffee
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (optional, based on ham’s saltiness)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and wait about 20 minutes until the grill is ready for cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Country Ham

1. Place the ham slices on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F for 30 seconds per side.
2. Move the ham to the flat griddle cooktop to continue cooking over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Red-Eye Gravy

1. Move the ham slices to a cooler spot on the griddle.
2. Add butter to the flat top and let it melt.
3. Pour in the hot black coffee, scraping up any bits left from the ham.
4. Stir in the brown sugar and black pepper, allowing the gravy to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Check the internal temperature of the ham, removing it from the grill when it is 15°F below the final temperature.
2. Place the ham on a serving plate and drizzle with the red-eye gravy.

Tips

• For an extra smoky flavor, use hickory or oak firewood.
• Pair the gravy with a slice of buttered cornbread for a Southern touch.
• Move the ham slices to different heat zones to control crispiness.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the gravy for extra heat.
2. Sweet & Savory: Mix in a drizzle of maple syrup with the gravy.
3. Garlic Butter: Melt garlic butter on the ham for an added twist.
4. Bold Coffee: Use espresso instead of black coffee for a stronger flavor.
5. Bourbon Infused: Stir a splash of bourbon into the gravy for depth.

Conclusion

This Alabama Grilled Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy is a true Southern classic, made even better by cooking on the Arteflame grill. The high-heat searing locks in flavors while the smoky, rich gravy enhances every bite. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and embrace the bold flavors of the South!

Best pairings

• Buttered cornbread
• Cheddar grits
• Fried eggs
• Collard greens
• Biscuits and honey