Anytime a black-eyed pea meets a grain of rice, it becomes Hoppin' John.

NPR: Vertamae's Hoppin' John

Hoppin' John has been the centerpiece of the Southern holiday table for generations.

NPR: Vertamae's Hoppin' John

One New Year's, I made a Hoppin' John salad with peas, rice, garlic and herbs for seasoning, so be creative.

NPR: Vertamae's Hoppin' John

Husk, the acclaimed restaurant of chef Sean Brock, often serves Hoppin' John, as does Charleston institution Hominy Grill.

CNN: 10 global New Year's eats

Seersucker in Brooklyn, New York, is serving Hoppin' John from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on New Year's Day.

CNN: 10 global New Year's eats

For some people, Hoppin' John is peas and rice cooked together.

NPR: Vertamae's Hoppin' John