The Lucky Black-Eyed Pea
I grew up in Texas, raised by Ohioans and surrounded by southerns. I did not learn about the lucky black-eyed pea until my 30’s. Whaaa?
It appears that I grew up sheltered, although surrounded by all Texans. One would think I’d have joined into the traditions of eating black-eyed peas on January 1st, however, I did not.
In fact, it was only after we stayed with friends on NYE, that I even heard about such a thing.
She had made her traditional dish, which was mostly black-eyed peas. Truthfully, I had never even had one of those funny looking peas until then, and the only reason I had the dish was because I didn’t want to be rude.
It was delicious!
It was only later, in conversation, that they mentioned the luck of the pea, which is why it’s so important to have them on January 1st.
Upon further investigation, they are believed to be associated with a “mystical and mythical power to bring good luck” and has been a staple in the south for over three centuries. Many believe it dates back to the Civil War, as far as bringing good fortune to those who eat black-eyed peas.
Much like resolutions, I’m curious as to why we wait until the new year for good luck to rain down on us, but it’s a thing, so whatever.
Are you going to eat black-eyed peas today? If you’re curious, I made a dish last week that had the bean that we call a pea, and I am going to call that good. Ha!
5 Comments
Texas Mike
I used to be “force fed” those things as a kid on new years. I always put up a fuss. Begrudgingly I would eat them if at my grandmas not sure why I was a pain to my mom about it. However i don’t remember the last time I had one. I will however be asked by mom when I call and wish her a HNY if I’ve eaten my peas yet. Lol
Angel
Ha! I love this story, thank you for sharing! I think that it’s just the nature of being a kid- to cause friction when the mood strikes and to stick with it. I also think it’s pretty awesome that she will ask you if you’ve had your peas yet. It’s a thing, you know. I hope that since we had ours last week, that the universe will count that for 2024 and rain some good luck on us in the year to come.
Zany
I grew up eating them on New Year’s day and several times during the year. Yes, I made some today and they were awesome!
All Over Again
Oh yeah – defnitely a must dish on New Year’s Day in my house growing up! My dad always asked me if I made a pot of black-eyed peas with ham and my sister checked in on me yesterday! The peas are for prosperity – like pennies or coins, and we have them with collard greens and cornbread for folding money and pieces of gold! Having leftovers today! Bring on the luck with some cha-ching too!
Angel
Oh wow, that is a great explanation of the NY day traditions and the meaning of it all. I love that your sister checked on you today, to make sure you had your peas; she cares and that is amazing!
Thank you for your comment!