Get Lucky with Black Eyed Peas

The black-eyed pea is infamous in traditional American lore as representing luck and prosperity if consumed first on New Year's Day. Dating back to the American Civil War, one story shares that it is the substance that aided in the survival of Confederate troops during the bitter frigid winter of 1864. Other tales share that it was used to celebrate freedom as the emancipation proclamation gave liberty to those enslaved on New Year's Day.

The South traditionally will serve “Hoppin’ John,” a dish of pork, black-eyed peas, and cornbread, to commemorate the New Year and usher in success. As the peas cook, they swell, symbolizing prosperity. The greens of cabbage, and collards of mustard sautéed with them symbolize money, and pork is used as a meaty flavoring due to the nature of pigs to root forward as they forage to represent positive motion. As a side, cornbread compliments the meal, representing gold.

The black-eyed pea is a legume and is often called a cowpea. It originated in West Africa and dates to prehistoric times in China and India too. The pea debuted in America in the 17th century and became a popular nitrogen fixator, as it adds nitrogen to the soil. In addition, the nutritional value of the black-eyed pea is highly sought after around the world.

This easy-to-grow plant is packed full of energy, providing a reliable source of folate and dietary fiber. Other trace minerals of iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc are included in its resume too.

This pea variety can be grown as a bush or a vine and is highly drought-tolerant as a heat-loving crop One should plant after the danger of frost is over and the soil is warm. The blossoms are full of nectar, attracting pollinators and boosting honey production. From feeding soil to feeding the bees, the luck this cultivar brings to the garden makes it an excellent addition to your new gardenscape as you consider your 2025 plans.

Plan accordingly for this tasty New Year's Dish to bring luck and prosperity into your home in 2025.

Lucky Black-Eyed Peas

3 stalks green onions, chopped.

4 slices smoked bacon, chopped.

2 cups greens of choice- spinach, kale, collards, cabbage, mustard

2 cloves garlic, minced.

1 can black eyed peas, drain, or 1/2 cup dry beans cooked in Instapot with 2 cups water.

2 TB dry white wine

Cook bacon in skillet, adding onions and garlic and cooking until onions are translucent. Add black-eyed peas, greens of choice, and wine, mixing well. Allow to simmer for 10 minutes on low,