Yesterday when I made a quick trip to the local grocery store, I saw bins full of locally grown collards and one filled with plastic containers of already shelled black-eyed peas.
I should have taken a picture!
Eating black-eyed peas and collards (mostly seasoned with pork in some form) on New Year’s Day is a custom in the south. (As is, now that I think about it, shooting of firecrackers Christmas Day night–and yes, that goes back to the loss of the Civil War and the refusal for a time to celebrate July 4th with firecrackers.)
Anyway, here’s an article from Southern Living magazine that tells you all about the how and why of eating black-eyed peas and collards on New Year’s Day. Rice and/or cornbread would often be included.
https://www.southernliving.com/holidays-occasions/new-years/new-years-traditions-black-eyed-peas
I wish I could…
But for me, legumes/most peas and pork are a bad idea, given my food triggers.
You could though…
Louisa Enright's Blog 
Interesting read, I knew black eyed peas were supposed to bring good luck but I didn’t know about all of the other superstitions. We’re making a beef soup tonight with locally raised beef shin bones. Unfortunately, I don’t have any black eyed peas to include. I won’t be going to the stores though, way too busy for me. I’m hoping to avoid getting sick before surgery on the 16th. Wishing you much happiness and health for the coming year, Louisa! Jan in MA
My very best wishes for success with whatever surgery will happen on the 16th. Go gently, ok?
I grew up in Virginia, but black eyed peas on New Year’s was not a tradition. I have, however, become a huge fan of Hoppin’ John, and that is dinner tonight! Saw your Bonanza quilt from your last post–wow, do I love that quilt!