I’m not real big on holiday traditions. Colored lights and cardboard decorations just don’t interest me all that much. But food related traditions, like the Thanksgiving spread or an Easter ham? Yeah, those I’ll do.

I first heard about Hoppin’ John from Michael Ruhlman several years ago. It’s supposed to bring luck in the new year. This is a hearty, one-pot meal that you can serve as-is or with rice or cornbread. Like many soups, it’s better the second day. Make ahead, or make enough to have leftovers.