Black Eyed Peas for the New Year

2026 is upon us, so with it I wish to share with you a delicious and nutrition ingredient that is commonly associated with the New Year, typically in the south. Eating black eyed peas during the new year is a southern tradition symbolizing good luck and prosperity, as the small legumes mimic the shape of coins. This type of celebreation is linked with African American history and culture, namely during the emancipation proclamation era. This food is typically eaten with greens (symbolizing money), pork (symbolizing progress), and corn (symbolizing gold). Not only is this ingredient a great way to welcome a good year, but this little legume is also abundant in nutrtients such as protein, fiber, folate and many other essential minerals. Here are some of the health benefits that come with black eyed peas. 

• Digestion- The high levels of both soluble and insoluble fiber keeps your digestion going. They also help you to feel full for longer periods of time, which can help with weight management. 
• Heart Health- The fiber content as well as the potassium and magnesium helps to keep your heart pumping, keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol levels well controlled. 
• Blood Sugar - This food is low on the glycemic index, thanks in part to the fiber content, making it a great choice for those with diabetes or struggle with maintaining energy levels. 
• Pregnancy- High folate levels in these legumes help to make sure that developing fetuses form a healthy spine and prevent birth defects. 
• Bone Health- Essential minerals like iron, calcium, copper, and magnesium are vital in making sure our blood and bones are strong. 
• Plant Based Protein- High levels of protein (13g per cup) make this a great source of protein for vegetarians and vegan. They also contain many helpful phytochemicals and antioxidants such a lignans and flavonoids to help prevent certain diseases 

Southern Style Black Eyed Peas

Ingredients

• 1lbs black eyed peas, soaked (or 2 15.5 oz cans of black eyed peas)
• 4-5 strips of bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoon thyme, minced
• 1 tablespoon red pepper flake (optional)
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups collard green/mustard greens/ spinach
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

• Soak black eyed peas overnight (or at least 4 hours). If using canned peas, then just strain the liquid from the peas. 
• In a large pot, such as a dutch oven, render the diced bacon on low heat until most of the bacon is a bit crispy. 
• Add in the diced onions and garlic, and saute until transluscent around 6-8 mins. Season the aromatics with some salt and pepper. 
• Add thyme (and red pepper flakes if you choose to add it) to mixture and cook 1 min
• Add in strained black eyed peas and stir and coat the beans in the bacon fat. 
• Add in chicken stock and cook over medium heat until three quarters of the liquid as been absorbed. 
• Add the greens to the mixture and incorporate them into the mixture. 
• Season with salt and pepper. 

* Substitutions- If you want to make this vegetarian, I would change out the bacon for 2 cups of chopped mushrooms and a dash of liquid smoke. I would also change the chicken stock to either a vegetable stock or a mushroom stock.