On New Years Day we like to cook a special meal to celebrate the new year with something green to bring wealth and beans like Hoppin’ John black-eyed peas for good luck.

This year my mom is making some really good Brussel sprouts with bacon and Leah is going to throw together a spinach leaf salad. It’s a really simple meal and there’s no need to go overboard on this. Just throw it together in the morning for an excellent New Years lunch.

Hoppin’ John

Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy

Serves: 10 Servings

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large ham hock
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup green pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 1 pound black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and rinsed
• 1 quart chicken stock
• Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dry thyme leaves
• Salt, black pepper, and cayenne
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
• 3 cups steamed white rice

Directions

Heat oil in a large soup pot and add the ham hock. Sear on all sides for 4 minutes. Add the onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic and cook for 4 more minutes.

Add the black-eyed peas stock, bay leaves, thyme, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 40 minutes or until the peas are creamy and tender, stirring occasionally.

If the liquid evaporates, add more water or stock as needed. Adjust seasoning and garnish with green onions. Serve over rice.

Wishing you a very Happy New Year!

Josh and Leah Day