Red Eye Tomato Gravy with Hot Water Corn Pones is a soulful Southern dish that effortlessly melds rich flavors and comforting textures. This dynamic pairing showcases savory gravy with the unexpected zing of cold coffee, delivering a taste that’s both nostalgic and innovative. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner, this recipe is a beloved favorite, often passed down through generations. The experience of savoring each bite makes it truly special, whether you’re at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home.

Why you’ll love this dish

There are countless reasons to whip up Red Eye Tomato Gravy with Hot Water Corn Pones. This dish is not only budget-friendly, but it also offers a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights. It’s a perfect choice when you’re looking for something unique yet comforting. The combination of the gravy’s depth from the hog jowl and the sweetness of the fire-roasted tomatoes, paired with the crispy corn pones, creates a delightful balance of flavors that’s hard to resist.

“This dish is like a hug on a plate! The rich, smoky gravy pairs perfectly with the crispy corn pones. I can’t stop coming back for seconds!” — A satisfied home cook

Preparing Red Eye Tomato Gravy with Hot Water Corn Pones

Making this delightful recipe is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. You’ll start by frying the hog jowl (or bacon) for that rich flavor base, then create a roux for the gravy. As you gradually add in the cold coffee and other ingredients, you’ll be thrilled to watch your gravy transform into a thick and luscious sauce. Meanwhile, the hot water corn pones deliver a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth gravy beautifully.

What you’ll need

Gather the following ingredients for this dish:

• Sliced hog jowl or thick-cut bacon
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold coffee
• 1 can fire-roasted tomatoes
• Fresh garlic slices
• 1/4 stick butter
• All-purpose seasoning blend
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Martha White cornmeal mix
• Boiling water
• 1 tablespoon Crisco, bacon grease, or butter
• Pinch of salt

(Feel free to swap out the hog jowl with turkey bacon for a lighter twist or use vegetable broth instead of coffee for a non-caffeinated version.)