Do you know why we Eat Black Eyed Peas for the New Year?
On New Year’s Day, many southerns eat Black-Eyed peas and greens, and they have brought the tradition to other parts of the country. But, why black eyed peas…why not regular old green peas?
A Little History
Eating black-eyed peas on New Years has been considered good luck for at least 1,500 years. Records of this tradition can actually be found in the Talmud dated around 500 A.D. It was a Jewish custom to eat black-eyed peas in celebration of Rosh Hashanah, which is the Jewish New Year. Yet, according to other folklore the tradition arrived after the Civil War. But, there is a strong possibility that the tradition simply came out of necessity. This particular food was available during the winter, held up well, and was inexpensive.
Add A Little Luck
How many of these peas should you eat? This is definitely a dangerous questions. According to some luck seekers, you must eat exactly 365 black eye peas. If you eat fewer, then you will not be lucky for that many fewer days, but if you eat too many, the extra days will also turn into bad luck. Now, others say all you need to eat is one pea to ensure good luck, but my guess is this little story was designed for those who dislike black eyed peas or to get kids to a least give them a try. What do you think?
How to Cook them?
There are no stead fast rules for the proper way to cook black-eyed peas. You can add salt, pepper, herbs, spices, maybe even a little bit of Mulate’s Cajun Seasoning can jazz them up. Most people like to add a little meat like a ham bone, pig’s feet, or even a hog jowl. You may even find different types of sausages added to the dish. You will also probably need to add some collard greens, corn bread, and hot sauce to finish this New Year’s Dish out for you and your guests.
Happy New Year from Mulate’s the Original Cajun Restaurant
No matter how you prepare your Black-Eyed Peas or if you believe in the luck they may bring, enjoy the New Year with your friends and family.
