From pork to black eyed peas, these recipes are celebrated traditions based upon symbolism to bring you good luck in the New Year. Let me start off by saying, I don't believe in luck. I am not superstitious! I look to God for the well being of myself and my family. With that said, it does not mean that we cant enjoy delicious recipes and the symbolism they bring to the New Year.
Food traditions span the test of time. I know that Catholicism is full of them. This post is all about the New Year foods that we enjoy and the traditions that surround them. I love sharing these delicious recipes on New Years Eve and hope that you like me, will enjoy throughout the coming year.
Grapes are a New Years custom that was started in Spain but now many people in Portugal enjoy eating grapes. It is customary to each 12 grapes one for each stroke going up to midnight. I love to just nibble grapes throughout the night or you can have fun serving them in a dish like the above Grape Cornbread or the Sausage and Grapes below.
Black Eyed Peas and Collard greens go way back in the days of civil war. Union troops swept through Virginia, confiscating crops and livestock to use as provisions for their troops. Virginians who weren't off fighting were left with very little, except for peas and greens. The Union soldiers considered "field peas" and greens, not good enough for human consumption, and only fed to livestock.
Lucky for the Confederate soldiers who could have died of starvation. There is a legend that during the Civil War, the town of Vicksburg, Virginia, ran out of food while under attack. The residents fortunately discovered black-eyed peas and the legume was thereafter considered lucky. So began the tradition of celebrating these dishes as the new year is born. Collard Greens or any other winter greens are thought to represent money.
This Pour Boy Gumbo above is full of hearty Black eyed peas and the Braised Collard Greens shown below has a Smoked Turkey wing added to give it some flavor.
Pigs represent progress in many cultures. Not sure why, but perhaps the forward manner in which they forage for food may be a clue. Forward being a symbol of moving forward towards progress. Either way here are two spectacular recipes that have pork in them.
These Slow Cooker Country style ribs above are cooked to melt from the bone perfection. Not to mention the Deviled ham shown below is a great way to use up some extra ham.
Red Lentils have been around since biblical times. In fact, lentils are so tempting Esau sold his birthright to his brother for it. They swell to double their size when cooked. They are round like a coin, perhaps that is why they represent financial rewards in the New Year. This Red Lentils and Sausage recipe is warm and hearty and will not break the bank.
So there you go, that is my line up of foods to enjoy in the New Year.
Do you have any foods that you love to serve?
Peace be with you,
Veronica
