Tennessee Jed Recipe

Sandwich

1. 1

   Toast and crisp the ham

   Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tsp neutral oil. Once shimmering, add the 4 slices of country ham in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side until edges are slightly crisped and fat is rendered. Transfer ham to a plate and keep warm.

2. 2

   Prepare the eggs

   Wipe the skillet lightly, reduce heat to low–medium, and add 1 tbs unsalted butter. Crack 2 large eggs into a small bowl and whisk briefly with the 1 tsp black pepper and the optional 1 tsp hot sauce until combined. Pour eggs into the skillet and cook, stirring gently for 45–60 seconds for soft-scrambled eggs or let set without stirring for 2–3 minutes for a folded/over-easy style. Remove just before fully set so they remain creamy.

3. 3

   Assemble the sandwich

   Butter one side of each bread slice with a thin layer of extra butter if desired (use part of the melted butter left in the pan). Place one bread slice butter-side down on the skillet over low heat. Layer 2 slices of cheddar on the bread, then the hot country ham slices, then the scrambled eggs. Top eggs with the remaining 2 cheddar slices and the second bread slice butter-side up.

4. 4

   Grill to finish

   Press the sandwich gently with a spatula and cook for 2–3 minutes per side over medium–low heat until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, flipping carefully. If the bread browns before cheese melts, reduce heat and cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes to trap heat and melt cheese.

5. 5

   Serve

   Transfer sandwich to a cutting board, let rest 1 minute, then cut in half. Garnish with chopped chives or green onion if using. Serve immediately.