Some say this traditional Southern dish got its name because President Andrew Jackson asked a cook for gravy as red as the cook's eyes (he'd been drinking); others claim it's because the evaporating gravy is said to make a red "eye" in the center of the pan. Whatever the origin, it's delicious.

• 1/2 stick ( 1/4 cup) unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 pounds baked Virginia ham, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 1/4 cup brewed coffee
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• Hot pepper sauce to taste

In a large skillet, heat the butter over moderately high heat until the foam subsides. Saute the ham in batches, turning it once, for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until it is browned, and transfer it to a platter.

Into the skillet pour the coffee and 1/2 cup boiling water and cook the mixture over high heat, scraping up the browned bits, for 2 minutes. Season the gravy with the hot pepper sauce and pour it over the ham slices. Serve ham and gravy with spoon bread or grits.

Serves 4 to 6.

-- Food Network