Magic black eyed peas, also known as Hoppin' John, is a traditional Southern American dish that is believed to bring good luck and prosperity when eaten on New Year's Day. This dish is made with black eyed peas, a type of legume that has been a staple in the Southern United States for centuries. The origins of this superstition and tradition dates back to African American culture and the era of slavery. It is said that during the Civil War, when Sherman's army swept through the Southern states, they raided the food supplies of the Confederate Army, but left behind the black eyed peas as they were considered to be food only fit for animals. The enslaved African Americans then used these peas, along with other available ingredients such as rice and bacon, to create Hoppin' John, a humble and nourishing dish. Over time, Hoppin' John became associated with luck and fortune, as the peas were believed to resemble coins and represent prosperity.
The Magic of Black-Eyed Peas: Starting 2024 Right
A friend recently asked for ‘my word’ for 2024. I loved the question…and I’ve heard some great answers. But to get to 2024, I had to start with the word that summed up my experiences of the past year. Light.
So many interesting, accomplished, smart, kind humans newly came into my orbit last year in one way or another that brought warmth and clarity, engaging with a spirit of collective learning. Also, I had a chance to reconnect in person with many long-time colleagues and friends which, after the pandemic, I deeply appreciated.
I truly believe that every interaction we have presents an opportunity for us to get stronger, become wiser and elevate our character just a little bit higher. I am grateful for the people I experienced that with in 2023.
Here are three learnings I’m taking with me into the new year:
1. Perspective . We each are given a special gift that brings clarity and insight. Through it, the situations that once ruffled our feathers now seem small and powerless. This gift could change the trajectory of our lives. As we enter a new year, we can choose to adjust our lenses to see through it to reap its benefits. That gift is Perspective.
2. Instincts . Whatever decision you made, whatever action you took, whether you trusted yourself or doubted, you did the best with what you had at the time. Settle on that. Give yourself grace. The events in the past helped to shape the growth you’ve had up to this moment. Put down your ‘busy badge of honor’. Fight for the “still time" needed to hear your internal guide that is always speaking. In 2024, more often than not, trust your instincts.
3. Fulfillment . You have something unique to share with the world. It’s something that's innate, comes to you naturally that others find of value. Maybe you can step into chaos and efficiently create order. Or you can pull individuals together to quickly create trusted, cohesive teams. It’s the thing for which you are both highly praised and heavily criticized. You know what it is. And you might even be holding it back, which serves no one. Ultimately, releasing it and seeing the positive impact on others will bring you deep fulfillment.
I love the idea of a gratitude journal. But this year also consider keeping a success journal, noting one thing you did you felt good about every day. It can be personal or professional, big or small. At the end of the week, review it, keeping yourself built up and encouraged (no doubt you’ll get the critical feedback as well - from yourself, from others - which has its place and can be useful too).
You know what my big success was this past week? Making Louisiana style homemade black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day with fried chicken and rice (if you’re from the south, you get it!). Enjoying a day around good food, friends, family (and football!) felt magical. I must admit, I did call my mom for some advice on the peas. How’d it all turn out? I asked my 17-year-old. “It was money”.
High praise, y’all….
I do believe we can predict, not all of course, but many of our experiences…. because we have the ability to create them. Let’s be intentional this year, seeing through perspective, trusting our instincts, and seeking deeper fulfillment in our professional lives, noting what we are learning along the way.
If you are open to commenting, feel free to share a learning you are taking into the new year or a success you’ve had so far (big or small!).
Wishing you and your families the very best in 2024.
Southern Black Eyed Peas Recipe
Southern Black-Eyed Peas Recipe or Hoppin’ John is a hearty and soul-warming delicacy. This black-eyed peas recipe is smokey, spicy, and pure satisfaction with a deep yet not overwhelming bacon flavor. And it’s a traditional Southern dish served on New Year’s Day to bring good luck!
I love anything with beans! Perhaps it started back in grade school when my aunt would cook beans for dinner in its modest rusticity – onions, salt, and oil, nothing fancy. Just that simple recipe made all of my troubles go away like magic.
And now that autumn is here, this Southern Black-Eyed Peas recipe is just the perfect dish to give as comforting soul-satisfying goodness to warm us up in this cold weather. This dish will surely remind you of home and nostalgic, happy memories. So relaxing and warm, indeed! ❤️
Over time, Hoppin' John became associated with luck and fortune, as the peas were believed to resemble coins and represent prosperity. It is said that the more peas you eat, the more luck you will have in the coming year. Some even believe that placing a coin or a dollar bill in the pot while cooking the dish can increase its luck-bringing power.
Content…
The recipe for Hoppin' John has evolved and varied over the years, with different regions and families adding their own twists and flavors to the dish. While the basic ingredients include black eyed peas, rice, and some kind of pork product like ham or bacon, additional ingredients such as onions, peppers, tomatoes, and spices can be added to enhance the flavor. Some also serve it with a side of collard greens, which symbolize money. Whether or not one believes in the superstition surrounding Hoppin' John, it is undeniable that this dish holds a special place in Southern American cuisine. It has a rich history and cultural significance, representing resilience, creativity, and resourcefulness in the face of adversity. For many, eating Hoppin' John on New Year's Day is a way to honor their heritage and connect with their ancestors. It is a dish that not only satisfies the appetite but also nourishes the soul with its deep-rooted traditions and symbolic meanings..
Reviews for "Talismans and Amulets: How Black Eyed Peas Can Protect and Bring Good Fortune"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really excited to try the Magic black eyed peas as I had heard a lot of good things about them. However, I was extremely disappointed with the taste. They had an odd texture and a strange aftertaste that I just couldn't get past. I ended up throwing most of them away and opting for a different brand.
2. Mark - 1 star - I usually enjoy black eyed peas, so I was looking forward to trying the Magic brand. Unfortunately, they did not live up to their name. The peas were mushy and lacked flavor. I found myself adding a lot of seasoning just to make them somewhat palatable. I would not buy these again.
3. Emily - 2 stars - The Magic black eyed peas were a letdown for me. They were quite bland and lacked any real depth of flavor. I tried adding different spices to enhance the taste, but they still fell short. I was expecting a magical experience, but these peas fell flat.
4. John - 1 star - I don't understand the hype around the Magic black eyed peas. I found them to be extremely dry and tasteless. It was a struggle to finish my plate. I'll stick to other brands from now on.
5. Rebecca - 2 stars - The Magic black eyed peas did not meet my expectations at all. They were overly salty and had a weird chemical aftertaste. I couldn't finish them and ended up throwing them away. I'm disappointed with the quality of these peas.