Welcome the New Year with a cherished culinary tradition! There’s no better way to usher in a year of abundance, prosperity, and good fortune than with a hearty pot of flavorful Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens. This classic Southern dish is not just a meal; it’s a symbol, a wish, and a delicious way to bring your loved ones together. Get ready to enjoy a recipe that promises to nourish your body and soul, setting the perfect tone for the year ahead with every comforting spoonful.
The Ultimate New Year’s Day Feast: Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens for Luck and Prosperity
A Cherished Southern Tradition: The Symbolism Behind Your New Year’s Meal
For generations, the combination of black eyed peas and collard greens has been more than just a delicious dish; it’s a deeply ingrained tradition, especially in the American South, believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. This custom, thought to have originated from enslaved people who adopted these dishes as symbols of hope and resilience, has since become a widespread practice for many families to observe on New Year’s Day, irrespective of their background.
The symbolism is both simple and profound: the small, round black eyed peas are said to represent coins, signifying financial prosperity and good fortune in the year ahead. The vibrant green collard greens, with their leafy texture, symbolize folded money, promising wealth and abundance. Often, a piece of golden cornbread is served alongside, symbolizing gold itself, completing the trifecta of good luck. Together, these elements create a meal that isn’t just satisfying but also imbued with powerful aspirations for a successful and fortunate year. It’s a culinary ritual that unites families, reflecting hope and optimism for what the future holds.
Our recipe expertly combines these traditional ingredients with the savory depth of bacon, the aromatic notes of garlic and sweet red onion, and a bright, zesty finish of fresh lemon. The result is a dish with a wonderful depth of flavor and texture that is both comforting and incredibly delicious. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a delicious tradition that the whole family will love, ensuring you start your year off right, full of hope and unparalleled flavor.
To truly complete this soul-warming meal and embrace the full Southern tradition, we highly recommend serving it with our sweet cornbread recipe or some delightful honey corn muffins. The slight sweetness and crumbly texture of freshly baked cornbread provide the perfect counterpoint to the savory, earthy greens and peas, making for a truly unforgettable New Year’s feast that will leave everyone feeling lucky and content.
What Makes This Dish So Special? Understanding Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens
The magic of this New Year’s Day dish lies deeply in its two primary, nutrient-packed ingredients, each bringing unique flavors, textures, and health benefits to the pot. Understanding these components helps appreciate the culinary harmony of the dish.
The Humble Black Eyed Pea: A Symbol of Wealth and a Nutritional Powerhouse
Black eyed peas are a type of cowpea, easily distinguishable by their creamy or pale white color and the distinctive black spot, or “eye,” at their inner curve. They boast a deep, earthy, and savory flavor that becomes incredibly rich and complex when slow-simmered with savory ingredients like smoky bacon, fragrant garlic, and robust chicken broth. Beyond their symbolic value of prosperity, black eyed peas are a nutritional powerhouse. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety, making them incredibly filling and sustaining. They are also rich in plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarian diets when prepared without meat. Furthermore, black eyed peas provide essential vitamins and minerals such as folate (crucial for cell growth and function), iron (important for blood health), and potassium, all contributing significantly to a healthy and balanced diet. Whether you choose fresh or opt for the convenience of canned varieties, these versatile legumes absorb flavors beautifully, making them the perfect, hearty foundation for a robust and satisfying stew.
Nutritious Collard Greens: The Green for Your Green, Packed with Health Benefits
Collard greens are dark, leafy green vegetables that belong to the Brassica oleracea species, a family that also includes other popular greens like turnip greens, kale, broccoli, and cabbage. Known for their sturdy texture and distinctively slightly bitter flavor, collards offer a fantastic and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the black eyed peas and bacon. When cooked down slowly and tenderly, their initial bitterness mellows beautifully, transforming into a tender, earthy sweetness that is wonderfully complemented by the bright tartness of fresh lemon juice and the smoky, salty notes introduced by the bacon.
From a nutritional standpoint, collard greens are absolute champions. They are packed with an impressive array of essential vitamins, including significant amounts of Vitamin K (crucial for bone health and proper blood clotting), Vitamin A (beneficial for vision, immune function, and skin health), and Vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant that supports immune system). They also provide a good source of calcium (for strong bones), dietary fiber (for digestive health), and various other beneficial phytonutrients and antioxidants. Preparing collard greens typically involves a thorough washing to remove any grit and the removal of their tough central stems, followed by a slow simmer that breaks them down into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, allowing them to fully absorb all the delicious flavors of the accompanying ingredients, creating the revered “pot liquor.”
Crafting Your Lucky New Year’s Day Dish: Ingredients and Supplies
To create this soul-satisfying and symbol-rich dish, you’ll need a carefully selected array of fresh, high-quality ingredients and a few essential kitchen tools. The beauty of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity and the way humble ingredients come together, through slow cooking, to create something truly extraordinary. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of what you’ll need to gather to embark on this delicious journey. (Full measurements and detailed instructions can be found in the complete recipe card at the bottom of this post).
Ingredients:
- Olive Oil: Two tablespoons of good quality olive oil serve as a foundational element, ideal for starting the sautéing process of our flavorful aromatics.
- Bacon: Two slices of chopped bacon are the undisputed secret weapon for this dish, imparting an irreplaceable smoky, savory depth and rendering out flavorful fat that enriches the entire stew. Opt for a good quality, thick-cut bacon for the best results and texture.
- Red Onion: Half a cup of diced red onion adds a touch of natural sweetness and a beautiful color contrast when sautéed until tender, forming a crucial part of our aromatic base.
- Garlic, Minced: Two cloves of freshly minced garlic are absolutely essential for a robust and pungent flavor base, perfectly complementing the earthy, savory notes of both the beans and greens.
- Collard Greens: Ten ounces (approximately 9 cups) of fresh collard greens are ideal. When selecting, look for crisp, dark green leaves without any blemishes or yellowing. A thorough washing and removal of tough stems are crucial before chopping.
- Tomatoes: Half a cup of chopped and seeded tomatoes adds a subtle acidity and a hint of sweetness, which beautifully balances the richness and earthiness of the stew.
- Fresh Black Eyed Peas: Twelve ounces (about 2 cups) of fresh black eyed peas are preferred for their superior texture and vibrant flavor. While canned black eyed peas are a convenient alternative (they are already cooked and tender, requiring significantly less simmering time), fresh peas offer a depth that is truly unparalleled. If using canned, simply cook until heated through and flavors have thoroughly melded.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice is a critical component, added at the end to brighten the entire dish, cutting through its richness and enhancing all the other wonderful flavors. Do not skip this!
- Kosher Salt: One teaspoon of kosher salt is used to season the dish perfectly, bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to taste as needed.
- Cayenne Pepper: Half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper introduces a gentle, warming kick of heat that tantalizes the palate without overwhelming the dish. Feel free to adjust this amount to your preferred spice level.
- Chicken Broth: Two cups of chicken broth form the rich liquid base for simmering, infusing the black eyed peas and collard greens with savory goodness. For a vegetarian version, a good quality vegetable broth can be substituted.
Supplies:
- Large Dutch Oven: An indispensable piece of cookware for this recipe. Its heavy bottom and tight-fitting lid ensure even cooking and slow simmering, allowing all the incredible flavors to fully develop and meld. A large, heavy-bottomed pot will also work effectively if a Dutch oven is not available.
- Sharp knife and cutting board for preparing ingredients.
- Stirring spoon, preferably wooden, for mixing and stirring during cooking.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Perfect Black Eyed Peas with Collard Greens
Making this traditional New Year’s Day dish is simpler than you might think, primarily requiring patience and a gentle hand as the flavors meld and deepen during a slow, comforting simmer. Follow these detailed steps to create a truly comforting, flavorful, and lucky meal for your family:
- Sauté the Aromatics and Bacon for a Flavorful Base: Begin by placing your large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil, allowing it to shimmer gently. Then, add the chopped bacon and cook until it just begins to crisp and has rendered most of its delicious fat, typically about 3 minutes. This initial step is crucial for building a foundational layer of smoky flavor. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Immediately add the diced red onion and sauté until it becomes tender and translucent, which should take approximately 3 more minutes. These aromatics lay the essential groundwork for a rich and complex flavor profile that will permeate the entire dish.
- Combine Main Ingredients: Into the Dutch oven, alongside the beautifully sautéed bacon and aromatics, add the prepared collard greens, the chopped tomatoes, and the black-eyed peas. If you’re using fresh collard greens, they will initially appear to fill the pot completely, but rest assured, they will cook down significantly. Stir all these ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring everything is well combined and coated with the delicious rendered bacon fat and olive oil, distributing the flavors evenly.
- Season and Initiate Simmer: Generously season the mixture in the pot with kosher salt, a pinch of cayenne pepper for a gentle, warming kick, and the vibrant fresh lemon juice. Stir everything once more to distribute these vital seasonings evenly. Finally, pour in the chicken broth. This liquid is the medium that will cook the peas and greens, slowly transforming into the rich, savory “pot liquor” that many Southerners consider the best and most flavorful part of the entire dish!
- The Essential Slow Simmer: Bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer. Once you see small bubbles forming, reduce the heat significantly to low, cover the Dutch oven tightly with its lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for approximately 2 hours. This extended, slow cooking time is absolutely essential for the black-eyed peas to become perfectly tender and creamy, and for the collard greens to soften beautifully and release their full, earthy flavor. Stir occasionally, perhaps every 30-45 minutes, to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking throughout. The longer this dish simmers, the more the flavors will deepen, meld, and transform into a truly cohesive and soulful stew.
- Serve and Embrace the Tradition: Once the black-eyed peas are wonderfully tender and the collard greens are soft, succulent, and bursting with flavor, your lucky New Year’s dish is ready to be savored! Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary – perhaps a little more salt, a dash more lemon, or an extra pinch of cayenne. Serve hot, traditionally alongside a generous, warm slice of cornbread (or several!) designed to soak up every last drop of that incredible, nutrient-rich “pot liquor.” Garnish with a fresh lemon wedge or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions and Perfect Pairings for Your Lucky Meal
While a hearty bowl of Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens is incredibly satisfying on its own, it truly shines when complemented by the right accompaniments, elevating it from a simple meal to a full Southern feast. Cornbread is almost a non-negotiable for a truly authentic experience; its slightly sweet, crumbly texture and ability to absorb the rich “pot liquor” are unparalleled. You can opt for a classic sweet cornbread, savory cornbread, or even cornbread muffins.
Beyond cornbread, consider adding a dash or two of your favorite hot sauce, like a Louisiana-style pepper sauce, for an extra kick of heat that awakens the palate. A side of thinly sliced raw red onions or pickled jalapeños can offer a fresh, sharp contrast that cuts through the richness of the stew. For a complete meal, some families also serve a side of rice, often referred to as “Hoppin’ John” when combined with black eyed peas, or a simple, crisp green salad to offer a refreshing balance to the rich, earthy flavors. Don’t forget, the pot liquor itself is a treasure – many connoisseurs enjoy dipping their cornbread directly into it, savoring every last, nutrient-packed drop of flavor.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens
Achieving the perfect pot of Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens involves a few key techniques and considerations. Keep these pro tips in mind to elevate your dish to an unforgettable level:
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: The true magic of this dish happens during the slow simmer. Allow the full 2 hours (or even a little longer if your peas are particularly firm) for the peas to become wonderfully tender and creamy, and for the flavors to fully deepen and meld. Patience is your most important ingredient for a truly soulful and rich result.
- Embrace the Pot Liquor: The flavorful broth left after cooking is often affectionately called “pot liquor” (or “potlikker”) and is highly prized in Southern cuisine. It’s not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients extracted from the greens. Ensure you have plenty of cornbread or biscuits ready to sop up every last, precious drop!
- Adjust Spice to Taste: The cayenne pepper in this recipe adds a gentle warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile. However, heat preferences vary greatly. Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of cayenne based on your personal preference for spice. A dash of red pepper flakes can also be added for an extra layer of heat.
- For Extra Smoky Depth: If you desire an even deeper, more complex smoky flavor, consider adding a smoked ham hock, a smoked turkey leg, or a piece of streaky salt pork to the pot along with the bacon at the beginning of the cooking process. These additions will slow-cook and infuse the entire dish with incredible umami. Remember to remove any bones before serving.
- Washing Collards Properly: Collard greens, especially fresh ones, can sometimes carry grit or sand from the farm. It is crucial to wash them thoroughly under cold running water, leaf by leaf, to ensure all dirt and sand are completely removed before chopping.
- Fresh vs. Dried Peas Considerations: This recipe conveniently uses fresh black eyed peas. If you opt to use dried black eyed peas, they will require a bit more preparation. They will need to be soaked overnight in cold water (or quick-soaked using a boiling method) and will generally require a longer cooking time, possibly 3-4 hours, until they are tender. Always adjust the amount of liquid (chicken broth) as necessary if using dried peas, as they absorb more water.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your dish before serving. Sometimes, a little extra salt, a fresh squeeze of lemon, or even a tiny bit of sugar (a traditional Southern trick for greens) can make all the difference, bringing out the best in the flavors.
Storage and Reheating: Enjoying Leftovers for Days of Good Luck
One of the many wonderful things about this classic dish is that it often tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have had more time to meld and deepen. Leftovers of Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens are a true treat, and they store beautifully, allowing you to extend your streak of good luck and deliciousness!
To store leftovers: Allow the Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly sealed, they will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three to four days, making them perfect for meal prep or quick, hearty lunches. For longer-term storage, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Divide cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be safely frozen for up to three months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
To reheat: For larger portions, simply transfer the desired amount to a saucepan or Dutch oven on the stove. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through completely. If the mixture appears too thick after refrigeration or freezing, you can add a splash of extra chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, for smaller, individual portions, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly in between each interval, until the dish is piping hot throughout. Always ensure it’s thoroughly heated before serving to maintain food safety and optimal taste.
More New Year’s Inspiration from The BakerMama
Beyond this lucky and delicious stew, we have even more fantastic ideas to make your New Year’s celebrations truly unforgettable! Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply want to start the year with delightful culinary experiences, explore our comprehensive collection. Count down the end of the year and start the new one off deliciously with some great New Year’s Food Boards and More inspiration! From sweet and savory snacking boards perfectly curated for the big New Year’s Eve night bash, to warm and wholesome breakfast boards ideal for the first morning of the year, we have everything you need to ring in the new year right and keep the festive spirit going strong. Explore our collection for delightful recipes, creative presentation ideas, and entertaining tips that will impress your guests and bring immense joy to your holiday table throughout the season!
If you make these Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens, we’d absolutely love to see your culinary creation! Be sure to snap a picture and share it with us on Instagram @thebakermama so we can admire your kitchen skills and celebrate your New Year’s tradition with you. If you’re on Facebook, don’t hesitate to join our vibrant Friends of The BakerMama group. It’s a fantastic community where you can connect with other passionate home cooks, share your cooking experiences, ask questions, and discover even more fun and yummy recipes from our ever-growing collection! We just love seeing how inspired and creative y’all get with the ideas we share. Enjoy this wonderful, time-honored tradition, and may your New Year be truly filled with immense luck, unparalleled prosperity, abundant joy, and, of course, absolutely delicious food!
xoxo,
Recipe Card: Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens
Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens
Description: Ring in a prosperous new year with a pot of filling and flavorful Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens, a Southern tradition for good luck and abundance.
- Author: The BakerMama
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces collard greens (about 9 cups), thoroughly washed and chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped and seeded tomatoes
- 12 ounces fresh black eyed peas (about 2 cups), or canned (rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it just starts to crisp, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced red onion and sauté until tender, about 3 more minutes.
- Add the prepared collard greens, chopped tomatoes, and black-eyed peas to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Season the mixture with kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well, then pour in the chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the Dutch oven tightly, and let it simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Cook until the black-eyed peas are tender and the collard greens are soft.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, traditionally alongside cornbread, and enjoy your lucky New Year’s meal!
Storage: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until thoroughly heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.
Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us on Instagram — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made! @thebakermama