Black-eyed peas are a New Year’s Day “good luck” tradition. But for Mel LeMane, the Southern staple is something more. Black-eyed peas literally launched his family into the restaurant business, and they’re the most requested side dish at Po’ Melvin’s, which serves up Southern comfort fare from an unassuming strip mall space in Irving. Continue reading
Filed under Crave, Steven Doyle
by Steven Doyle
Black-eyed peas have long been a traditional New Years dish with the thought that they bring the eater good luck. The tradition dates back to the Civil War, when Union troops, especially in areas targeted by General William Tecumseh Sherman, typically stripped the countryside of all stored food, crops, and livestock, and destroyed whatever they could not carry away. At that time, Northerners considered “field peas” and field corn suitable only for animal fodder, and did not steal or destroy these humble foods. It’s a southern thing.
There are a few great places to enjoy your personal pot of good luck in the Dallas area. Certainly look to the obvious spots such as Celebration on Lovers Lane in Dallas where they have been serving southern hospitality since 1971. In addition to your black-eyed peas, you can also find a great chicken fried steak, catfish, meatloaf and other hearty dishes to start your year off right. Continue reading
Filed under Steven Doyle
We like your chances in 2016, but it can’t hurt to stack the deck in your favor. That’s why countless people eat luck-producing black eyed peas on New Year’s Day. But Greenville Avenue Pizza Company wanted to make this tradition a little better and a lot tastier with their “Hoppin’ Jean” pizza.
It all starts with a perfect crust topped with Alfredo or pizza sauce, per the customer’s preference. Then they pile on the mozzarella cheese and a healthy dose of Hoppin’ John, which consists of black eyed peas, sausage, bacon, rice and spices. A large pie costs $23 while a small goes for $17. Continue reading
Filed under Steven Doyle
