On the commencement of the year, a savoury and traditional feast is relished by many, comprised of dried cowpeas, salt pork and rice. This dish is a symbolic meal, consumed with the belief that devouring cowpeas on this day will bestow favorable fortune throughout the rest of the year.
Hoppin John is a dish originally from the Carolinas, traditionally served on New Year’s Day for good luck, and now popular throughout the southern United States to bring good fortune in the New Year. It is typically made with black-eyed peas, rice, and chopped onions, seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes ham hocks or bacon.