INSIGHT Magazine December 2014 | Page 21

New Years Food Myths A tradition common to the southern states of the USA dictates that the eating of blackeyed peas on New Year’s Day will attract both general good luck and money in particular to the one doing the dining. Some choose to add other Southern fare to this tradition, but the black-eyed peas are key. From the south comes the custom of eating greens such as cabbage, collard greens, mustard greens, kale or spinach to bring money. In some families, a coin is buried in the rice and peas just before serving, ensuring a fortunate year for the finder. Eating cornbread will bring wealth if eaten on New Years Day. INSIGHT Chicken should not be eaten on the first day of the year or you will have financial difficulties for the rest of the year. December 2014 21