How to Ensure Good Luck in the Coming Year

This is the recipe for Hoppin' John. It is said that by consuming this simple, hearty dish on New Year's Day -- by savoring even a single black-eyed pea -- good luck will prevail in the coming year. The historical origins of this tradition are thought to be from the southeastern coastal regions of our country: slave culture, Creole, Caribbean, African.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Christmas ham bone or smoked ham hocks, knuckles, etc. Smoked turkey wings are also an excellent flavoring.
• 2 lb. bag of dried black-eyed peas
• 3 celery stalks
• Raw green, yellow and red peppers
• 1-2 medium onions
• Large pot and wooden spoon

1. In December, as early as possible, begin telling friends and acquaintances of your plan to make Hoppin' John on New Year's Day to ensure good luck.
   Be fanciful; create a history if necessary. For instance, the name Hoppin' John might derive from the French creole term for black-eyed peas, "pois pigeon." (Or it may not!) Share a funny story about things that have happened -- or could -- happen to you if you do not eat your black-eyed peas! The real or imagined elements of the tradition are interesting, but more importantly, the conversation may lead people to share their own hopes and dreams for the coming new year. Issue invitations for people to join you, or simply leave them with the knowledge that you will be holding them in your thoughts and wishing them well on New Year's Day. Be a good listener and show that you care by offering good company and a comforting meal.
2. On January 1st, wake up early. Prepare dried black-eyed peas according to directions on bag. Soak and rinse.
   Submerge ham bone in water. Bring to simmer. Drain black-eyed peas and add to pot. Add diced peppers, onions and celery. Salt and pepper to taste and/or add a few dashes of Tabasco. Continue to simmer approximately one hour.
   Dish is done when all vegetables have begun to soften, but are not yet mushy.
3. Serve Hoppin' John by itself, over rice, or with cornbread. Drink whatever you'd like and with whom you'd like!
4. Whether you are enjoying a bowl of Hoppin' John all by your lonesome, with just a few family and friends, or if a whole crowd of lost souls, acquaintances and hang-over sufferers have decided to turn your New Year's Day into an Open House --- thank your ancestors for all they had to do to get you here and appreciate the opportunity each new day can bring.

Tips & Warnings

• We make our own luck and our friends can help us if we let them. Hedge your bets: Eat your black-eyed peas on Jan. 1