I remember when the year 2000 seemed so far into the future and here we are in 2014! New Year’s Day at our house – our traditional waffle breakfast, lots of football, a big pot of chili in the crock pot and, of course, some black eyed peas. I don’t really think about the “why” of black eyed peas – it’s just what I’ve always done. So…I decided to do a little research and found this article on this New Year’s Day Tradition!
This year, my tradition is served in the form of a “Black Eyed Pea Dip”. Some people call this “Texas Caviar” and there are several versions out there. Here’s the one I have tweeked for my own.
Black-Eyed Pea Dip
2 (15-oz) cans black-eyed peas, well drained
1 (15-oz) can whole kernel corn, well drained
2 cans Rotel tomatoes, well drained
1 small or ½ large red pepper, chopped
1 T. chopped jalepeno pepper, fresh or from a jar
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 c. red wine vinegar
1 T. balsamic vinegar
1 t. salt
1/2 t. freshly ground black pepper
1 T. Dijon mustard
1/4 t. sugar
Pinch dried oregano
1/2 c. olive oil
1/2 c. vegetable oil
Directions:
In a large bowl, stir together the black-eyed peas, corn, Rotel, bell pepper, jalapeño and onion. In a jar fitted with a tight lid, mix together the vinegars, oils, salt, pepper, mustard, sugar and oregano. Pour the dressing into the bowl, adding just enough to coat the vegetables but not drench them.
Serve with tortilla chips or corn chips.
My Favorite Crock Pot Chili
2 pounds ground beef
2 cans red kidney beans, rinsed and well drained
2 cans chopped tomatoes, well drained
2 small onions, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 T. chili powder
2 t. salt
1 t. pepper
Brown the ground beef and drain. Place ground beef in a large slow cooker. Add all other ingredients. Stir until blended. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8-10 hours. Garnish individual bowls as desired – cheese, sour cream, chips, etc.
Note: I used one can of regular chopped tomatoes and one can fire-roasted tomatoes so it is a bit spicy! This is a very “hearty” chili!
So, my research reminded me that black eyed peas symbolize prosperity! Wishing you a day of fun traditions, good food and a year of happiness and prosperity! Happy 2014!!
'Tis A Blessing To Be 