Black eyed Peas - A New Year's Day Tradition

Don't forget the tradition of Black eyed peas for your New Year's Day meal.

Many cultures have different superstitions, traditions and folklore surrounding the New Year's Day meal. The American tradition/superstition is to eat black eyed peas. These delicious little peas are believed to bring good luck for the year ahead. Many Americans also believe that they must eat something green, such as cabbage or spinach, (representing US dollars), as this is believed to ensure wealth and prosperity in the coming year.

Then there is the eating of the twelve grapes, a tradition practiced by some cultures, which goes like this; at the stroke of midnight, each person is to eat twelve grapes, one at a time, representing each month of the year. The folklore or superstition goes like this; if one of the grapes taste sour you will have a sour, unpleasant or bad period during the corresponding month. I like this one and have included it in our traditional New Year's Day meal.

While everyone in our household enjoys eating black eyed peas, there are many people who don't care for them. In this case you might want to put a new twist on an old classic. Try making a black eyed pea salsa (recipe below) or maybe try (my pea-corn dish, link included at bottom) to offer as options. Be sure to include something green, such as cabbage or spinach which will ensure a prosperous year ahead. Add a pan of hot cornbread and serve with sweet iced tea.

Whatever your New Year's Day tradition is, remember to relax and enjoy yourself. Be sure to give thanks and count your blessings. Have a happy and prosperous new Year.

Black Eyed Pea Salsa

4 ripe tomatoes-chopped

1 medium onion-chopped

1 clove garlic-minced

(optional)1 jalapeno-seeded and chopped fine

1 medium bell pepper-seeded and chopped

3 tablespoons fresh cilantro-chopped

2 cans black eyed peas-rinsed and drained

salt and pepper to taste

Directions;

In a medium serving bowl; add the rinsed and drained black eyed peas.

Add the remaining ingredients and toss.

Serve as desired or cover and let chill in fridge.