A History of the Southern New Year’s Tradition, Hoppin’ John, and Black Eyed Peas Recipes to Try

Hoppin’ John, a dish that has a combination of black eyed peas, rice, and pork, is a traditional Southern dish to taste on New Year’s Day for good luck. According to History.com, Hoppin’ John originated in the Low Country of South Carolina in the late 1840s, and there are varying theories on the source of the name. Some say it was named after an actual man nicknamed Hoppin’ John who sold peas and rice on the streets of Charleston and others say it’s named for the kids jumping for the dish. Hoppin’ John is eaten with collards, which represent money, and the peas represent coins. In the south, according to About.com, cabbage is a substitute in other areas for collard greens, and it’s also tradition to include corn bread, which represents spending money, but most likely, it’s because corn bread is delicious and goes with everything. (especially deluxe corn bread!)

The New Year’s tradition of black eyed peas and hoppin’ john of course have many variations from the traditional recipe, and adding a black eyed peas salad to mixed greens and adding to a stew are perfect for winter-inspired dishes. Here are a few recipes worth trying – and using frozen or canned black eyed peas makes these simple and quick to make!

Just Can’t Get Enough: 5 Black Eyed Peas Recipes to Try

1. Black Eyed Peas & Kale Salad

Recipe | Black Eyed Peas & Kale Salad from Southern Living

This sophisticated twist on black eyed peas from Southern Living is absolutely delicious, and a great bean salad to eat solo or toss in with a salad.

2. Hoppin’ John Stew with White Cheddar Cheese Grits would make an excellent winter comfort dish – and adding a spicy sausage would make this a really heart meal. Pair this with a good red blend like the Pepperjack Barossa Red Blend or a Zinfandel.

3. Greek Bean Salad from Pawleys Island Posh is great to keep in the fridge to eat as a side, dip or toss into salads. Sub or add black eyed peas in addition to the white beans. (also: mint optional.)

4. Black Eyed Peas Hummus is a great snack to eat with veggies, pita, or chips. This would be an excellent and different dip to serve at a party, and would pair really well with a good, creamy Chardonnay like the Napa Cellars Chardonnay.

5. Crockpot Cajun Black Eyed Peas & Sausage Stew  – Pair a spicy dish like this with a good Zinfandel like the Knotty Vines Zin and crusty bread for a great winter dinner.

Happy New Year!