Black Eyed Peas

Traditionally black eyed peas are eaten on New Year's Day for prosperity. We have been observing this tradition in my family for as long as I can remember.
Some type of green is usually eaten as well, to insure financial stability and fortune.

The kind of BEP's I grew up eating, were full of pork(usually ham hocks) and the greens were typically cooked to death.
Here's my version. Still full of flavor, but with more texture and nutrients.

1 carrot diced
1 stalk celery diced
1/4 large onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 large bay leaf or 2 small
1tsp poultry seasoning
5 cups veggie broth
8oz bep's (presoaked overnight per instructions on bag)
1 medium sweet potato or 2 small cut into bite size chunks
1 bunch of kale de-stemmed, washed and sliced
2tbl olive oil
*salt and pepper to taste





Saute 1st 6 ingredients in olive oil for about 5 minutes.
Add broth and beans to pot. Cover and reduce heat to simmer for about 1 hour.
Add in sweet potatoes and kale and continue to cook for 15 minutes or until beans and sweet potatoes are desired tenderness.
Salt and pepper to taste
* Amount will vary depending on which type of veggie broth you use.
Remove from heat and let sit 10 minutes before serving.

I serve this over brown rice with cornbread or corn muffins.
Enjoy!