As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, people around the world come together to mark the beginning of a new year. While customs and traditions may vary from culture to culture, there’s one constant that brings us all together: a bountiful feast to usher in good fortune for the year ahead. In many societies, it’s believed that the food we consume on New Year’s Day sets the tone for the months to come.
With this in mind, here are 15 tried-and-true recipes that have been passed down through generations, each one imbued with a dash of good luck and a whole lot of flavor.
Aunt Bee’s Hoppin’ John
As tradition dictates, ringing in the new year calls for a hearty and satisfying dinner that honors Southern roots. For a taste of nostalgia, gather ’round with family and friends to savor a classic Lucky New Year’s feast, featuring tender pork, nutrient-rich greens, and the star of the show: Aunt Bee’s Hoppin’ John. This straightforward rice dish is a masterclass in simplicity, requiring minimal effort yet yielding maximum flavor.
It’s the ideal accompaniment to your celebratory meal, and we’ve got the inside scoop – check it out here!
Smoky Sweet Vegan Collard Greens
Savory and slightly sweet, these smoky vegan collard greens make an excellent accompaniment to barbecue or dairy-free mac and cheese. The subtle sweetness comes from the addition of dried cranberries, which provides a lovely rounded flavor profile. Additionally, this recipe is not only vegan but also gluten-free, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
Easy Collard Greens – Tender & Garlicky
My beloved collard greens recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, impressing with its velvety texture and depth of flavor. As a bonus, this vegan and gluten-free side dish is perfect for those with dietary restrictions. To give it a try, simply follow the link here.
Vegan Hoppin’ John
As the clock strikes midnight on January 1st, many of us take a moment to reflect on the past year and look forward to the opportunities that the new one will bring. And what better way to kick off this fresh start than with a delicious and nutritious bowl of vegan Hoppin’ John? This traditional Southern dish is often served as a symbol of good luck and prosperity, making it the perfect way to celebrate the start of a new year.
Hoppin’ John Burgers With Tempeh Bacon And Spicy Aioli
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, indulge in a vegan twist on the traditional Lowcountry celebration with Hoppin’ John Burgers featuring tempeh bacon and spicy aioli. This innovative sandwich combines the bold flavors of the classic dish into one satisfying bite.
Black Eyed Peas Salad w/ Baby Power Green
Kickstart your New Year with a dish that’s not only delicious but also steeped in tradition. The Black Eyed Peas Salad with Baby Power Greens is the perfect combination of good health and good fortune, as black eyed peas and leafy greens are both considered ‘lucky’ foods. Try it out for yourself!
Smoky Cajun Black Eyed Peas Pasta
The introduction of Smoky Cajun Black Eyed Peas Pasta promises a delightful culinary experience, not only satisfying your taste buds but also believed by some to bring good fortune and prosperity in the new year. According to tradition, this dish has been associated with positive energies, making it an excellent choice for a New Year’s celebration or any special occasion.
Breton Beans (Fasolka po Bretonsku) w/ Kielbasa
As winter’s chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Breton Beans (Fasolka po Bretonsku) with Kielbasa and Tomatoes to lift the spirits. And for those looking to start the new year off right, this hearty dish is traditionally paired with black-eyed peas – a time-honored tradition that’s sure to bring good fortune.
Instant Pot Black Eyed Pea Soup
Experience the authentic taste of Southern cuisine with a contemporary spin, as this instant Black-Eyed Pea Soup recipe whips up a flavorful medley of ingredients in a fraction of the time!
Simple Black-Eyed Pea Salad
Indulge in the delightful taste and simplicity of this Simple Black-Eyed Pea Salad, perfect for lunch, a side dish, or even a light supper. Its delectable flavor profile makes it an instant favorite among food enthusiasts, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage, a straightforward and satisfying recipe that requires mere 6 hours of crock pot magic. Simply combine Sweet Italian Sausage links with an assortment of wholesome vegetables – including potatoes, cabbage, carrots, and onion – for a hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Mongolian Buuz (Steamed Meat Dumplings)
In the heart of Mongolian cuisine, there’s nothing quite like a steaming plate of Buuz – or steamed Mongolian dumplings. These savory pockets of meat are a staple in Mongolia, enjoyed by both street vendors and home cooks alike. A traditional treat during Tsagaan Sar, the Mongolian lunar new year celebrations, Buuz bring together the quintessential elements of Mongolian cooking. The filling typically consists of fatty mutton, a characteristic that defines many Mongolian dishes.
What’s more, the flavor profile is remarkably simple, allowing the rich taste of the meat to take center stage.
Ham Black-Eyed Pea Soup With Collard Greens
As the temperature drops, my thoughts turn to warm and comforting bowls of soup. The recent chilly spell has left me yearning for hearty, filling meals that can help thaw out my chilled bones. One such recipe that always hits the spot is my go-to Ham Black-Eyed Pea Soup with Collard Greens – a rich, creamy concoction that’s the epitome of comfort food on a cold winter day.
Black Eyed Pea Dip Recipe
The Black Eyed Pea Dip is an ideal choice for celebrations like New Year’s Day, but its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion. This nutritious dip combines the creaminess of avocado with the crunch of corn and bell pepper, all tied together by a zesty dressing. Try it out!
Grandpa Joel’s Vegan Ham Hocks and Beans
As I sit down to share my family’s cherished tradition with you, I’m reminded that every culture and household has its own unique way of welcoming the new year. On December 31st, people from all walks of life come together to feast on a bounty of food, a universal symbol of good fortune in the year ahead. In our family, this age-old custom is tied to my Grandpa Joel’s legendary vegan ham hocks and beans, which have become an integral part of our New Year’s Day celebrations.
According to legend, savoring these delectable dishes on January 1st ensures a prosperous and fortunate year for all. I invite you to join me in exploring the magic behind this beloved tradition.
Instructions
Start the new year with a dash of good luck by trying out some traditional recipes that bring prosperity and positivity. Click on the links provided below each photo to access the full recipe and instructions. Share your creations on Pinterest and don’t forget to tag me! The cuisines featured are American classics, carefully curated for you to enjoy.