Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by frying the hog jowl or bacon in a large skillet until it’s crisp. Remove the meat, but don’t discard those delicious drippings—they’re crucial for the flavor!
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion in the drippings until they turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to unleash its fragrance.
- Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking it until it takes on a golden brown color.
- Slowly pour in the cold coffee, stirring constantly for a smooth gravy base.
- Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, fresh garlic slices, butter, and your seasoning blend. Allow it to simmer until it thickens, letting those flavors meld beautifully.
- For the corn pones, combine cornmeal, a pinch of salt, and your choice of fat in a bowl. Stir in boiling water until it forms a thick batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into a hot, greased skillet, frying until both sides are golden and crispy.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This dish can be served in a variety of delightful ways. Ladle the rich tomato gravy generously over the crispy corn pones for a truly indulgent meal. Pair with a simple green salad or some sautéed greens for a well-rounded plate. It also works wonderfully alongside eggs for breakfast or paired with grilled chicken for a heartier dinner option.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing leftovers? It’s a breeze! Allow the gravy to cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for longer storage—just remember to defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Pro Chef Tips
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better your tomatoes and coffee, the richer your gravy will be. Go for fire-roasted varieties for added depth.
- Make it Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors mature. Consider making it ahead of time if you plan on serving guests.
- Adjust Your Seasonings: Don’t be shy about adjusting the spices. Taste as you go, and feel free to add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Creative Twists
Want to switch up the flavors? Consider some of these variations:
- Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or even some corn into your gravy for added texture.
- Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering the gravy.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute bacon with smoked paprika for that depth and try using vegetable broth instead of coffee for the gravy base.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation typically takes about 15-20 minutes, with cooking time around 30 minutes.
Can I use decaf coffee?
Absolutely! Decaf works just fine, and it won’t alter the taste significantly.
How do I reheat leftover gravy?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring regularly, or you can microwave in short intervals. Just be sure to cover it to avoid splatters.
This Red Eye Tomato Gravy with Hot Water Corn Pones is more than just dinner; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings together comfort and delightful flavors. Enjoy every bite!
