There's no doubt North Carolinians, and southerners in general, are a superstitious bunch of people. Sometimes it's to keep North Carolina traditions alive, sometimes it's based on a story our grandparents told us as children. Either way, North Carolinians usually avoid the last loaf of bread and would never let someone sweep under our feet! But if we believe them or not, the heart is that it's really just for fun and honestly, in the South we do love a good tradition. One tradition that's also delicious is the quintessential New Year's day meal. The North Carolina superstition is said to give you wealth, luck, and happiness in the New Year... and whether you believe that or not, it's a downright delicious meal regardless!
1. First you'll need some good ol' collard greens
Collard greens are said to signify prosperity and good luck...but don't forget to pair them with...
2. Black eyed peas
You can't have one without the other. Black eyed peas and collard greens date back to the Civil War. As basic 'survival food,' for southern soldiers, Union soldiers had destroyed much of the essential crop, but both black eyed-peas and collard greens helped confederate soldiers survive the harsh winter. Together, they equal prosperity and good luck, something we all are seeking in the coming year.
3. Cured pork
Pork is said to signify looking forward to the year ahead, because pigs can't turn their head from side to side. Thus, pork is important for your New Years dish to signify moving and looking forward.
4. Don't forget the gold...
Who doesn't love cornbread? What it represents on this New Year's dish is more than just great flavor...but something we all need to survive: a bit o' money. Cornbread represents wealth and good fortune in the coming year. Drizzle in honey for an added sweetness!
2017 is looking pretty good and pretty delicious.
There you have it - the quintessential New Year's Day meal that is a tradition for many and a must if you have yet to try it!
Of course, you're able to change and adjust the recipe as you like - but really, we always loved this meal growing up and even today, make it myself on New Years. What about you -- did you know about this New Year's tradition in North Carolina? Do you eat the quintessential New Years meal each year? Has it brought you the promised results? What are your family's favorite North Carolina traditions? Sound off in the comments below!
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