Hoppin' John

Hoppin' John is a stew of black-eyed peas and rice which traditionally ushers in the New Year. Other rice-based stews are called Jambalayas -- combining stock, vegetables, and rice with any number of meats, including duck, sausage, and chicken. Jambalaya reflects the Spanish accent in Cajun cooking, recalling paella's combination of shellfish, meat, and rice cooked in stock.