Black-Eyed Peas

No I am not referring to Fergie's musical group. I mean the black-eyed peas that are a traditional popular southern fare served on New Year's Eve or Day since Civil War times.

They are a symbol of good luck, fortune and prosperity. The peas represent coins and the greens they are served with represent foldin' money. The peas swell when cooking which means an increase in your fortunes. Eating humble food such as peas shows you are worthy of good fortune. The most popular black-eyed peas dish served is Hoppin' John Black-Eyed Peas and Rice.

Below you will find a recipe you might want to consider trying. Besides increasing the chance for good luck these peas are for healthier eating (just in case that was one of your New Year's resolutions) since they contain lots of protein with other nutrients such as calcium, iron and potassium.

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recipe adapted from several sources

this one can be made in a slow cooker

Hoppin' John

Ingredients:

• 2 cans black-eyed peas, drained or one small package of peas that have been cooked and drained
• 4 smoked pork chops or 1/4 lb. ham (1-2 cups ham) or 1/4 lb. bacon
• 3 celery rib
• 1 green pepper chopped or use combination of red and green pepper
• 1/2 -3/4 cup sweet onion chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic mined
• 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 3 TB. brown sugar
• 2 TB. ketchup
• 1 bay leaf
• 3/4 tsp. cumin
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1-2 tsp. Creole seasoning
• 1 can diced tomatoes with chile peppers
• 2 cups of water
• 1 can of chicken broth
• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice

Directions:

• Combine all ingredients in slow cooker or crock pot.
• Cover and cook on low for 6 hours- remove bay leaf
• Serve with cabbage and cornbread
• Serves 4