According to some historians, the black-eyed peas’ correlation with luck dates back to the Civil War. This was a big crop in the South, first planted as food for livestock and later as a food staple for slaves. When Sherman swept through, his soldiers destroyed and stole all crops, but left black-eyed peas behind. Survivors subsisted on this nourishing food, and would likely have perished without it.
Others say that legumes are considered lucky because of their resemblance to coins. But black-eyed peas aren’t the only reason Hoppin’ John, a traditional black-eyed pea and pork stew served over rice, may be the luckiest thing you make all year.
- Served with greens (collards, mustard or turnip greens, which varies regionally), the peas represent coins and the greens represent paper money. In some areas cabbage is used in place of the greens.
- Cornbread, often served with black-eyed peas and greens, represents gold.
- For the best chance of luck every day in the year ahead, one must eat at least 365 black-eyed peas on New Year's Day.
- Black-eyed peas eaten with stewed tomatoes represent wealth and health.
- Adding a shiny penny or dime to the pot just before serving is another tradition practiced by some. When served, the person whose bowl contains the penny or dime receives the best luck for the New Year. Just be careful to not swallow the coin which would be a rather unlucky way to start off the year....
So if you’re interested in having a lucky 2015, have this dish on New Year’s Day. If you listen to Southern tradition, feel free to add a fried egg on top for the luckiest breakfast you'll eat!.
I'll be making a slightly smokey variation to the traditional recipe that I found on www.myrecipes.com - http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/smoky-black-eyed-peas
What are some of your favorite recipes? Feel free to link here!
I hope you all have a very lucky 2015!
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