Celebrating the New Year in the South

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I did not skip the traditional Southern New Year's dinner this year; not because I'm superstitious, but because we can use all of the positive vibes we can get! Additionally, I love southern comfort food, and because 2020 has been a tough year, I needed some comfort in the form of a meal. 

For those who are not familiar with the Southern New Year's traditional meal, it consists of black-eyed peas, greens, some form of pork, and cornbread. It is one of the best meals for cold winter nights, so it is a perfect way to start the new year. 


Even though today's high was near 70 degrees, we still ate our traditional meal. Additionally, I love the tradition's humbleness, and it is an inexpensive way to share the new year with others.  


While the traditions may vary, here is a little background on the Southern New Year's Meal.


Black-eyed peas. It has been said that during the Civil War, the Union's troops left the black-eyed peas and salted pork because they thought it was food for the animals. Little did they know that the Confederate soldiers considered the food good fortune because they had something to eat and would not starve. An African tradition states that black-eyed peas were eaten to celebrate freedom when the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect. We all could use more good fortune in our lives.


Greens. Greens are said to bring in cash for the new year. Bring it on!


Cornbread. The cornbread is said to represent golden opportunities and gold money. Yes, please!


Pork. The pig has been seen by many as lucky. Also, because they root forward, people view them as an animal of progress. I could use some positive forward progression. 


So for New Year's 2021, I made a batch of black-eyed peas with bacon and sausage, greens with bacon, and delicious cornbread. I may even have to brew up some good southern iced tea a little later!


There are so many New Year's traditions. What are some ways that you celebrated the new year? Share your traditions in the comments below.


Praying for health for each one of you in 2021!


Jackie W.

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