Luck and Money

Description
Luck and Money, or collards and black-eyed-peas, are traditionally eaten in the south on New Year's Day. There are a variety of ways to prepare them: this is one version.

Ingredients

 * 1 can diced tomatoes
 * 1 can black-eyed peas (drained and rinsed)
 * ½ package frozen chopped collard greens
 * ½ lb ham, cut into cubes (optional)
 * 1 cup prepared rice
 * 1 tsp sugar
 * garlic powder
 * dried onion
 * shredded cheese (optional)

Directions

 * 1) In a medium saucepan, combine tomatoes, black-eyed peas and sugar.
 * 2) Add garlic and dried onions to taste.
 * 3) Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and allow to simmer uncovered for at least 10 minutes (longer is better).
 * 4) Add collards and ham, continue to cook for another 5–10 minutes, or until collards are cooked.
 * 5) Remove from heat and add rice, mixing thoroughly.
 * 6) Top with shredded cheese after serving if desired.

Variations

 * 1) Skip adding the rice, and serve over baked potatoes.
 * 2) Omit the ham to make this a vegetarian dish.