Quick Hoppin' John Recipe

If you want to start the new year on the right foot, this dish of black-eyed peas and ham is a good bet. This hoppin' john is a quick and easy version of the popular "Lucky" Dish that's traditionally eaten on new year's day. Canned black-eyed peas, leftover ham, and hot cooked rice make a fast and easy meal; all you need to complete the good luck dinner is a skillet of cornbread and some cooked southern-style greens or cabbage. Coleslaw is another great way to incorporate the cabbage. Many southerners like chow chowa relish made with cabbage, green tomatoes, and some other garden vegetablesor corn relish with their peas. Whatever you choose to serve them with, you'll soon find out why southerners love their peas. They're satisfying, flavorful, and with rice make a complete meal.