Black-eyed peas, also known as cowpeas, are a staple food and cultural symbol in the American South. They are called by different colloquial names throughout the region.
Common Names for Black-Eyed Peas in the South
Here are some of the most common names for black-eyed peas in the Southern United States:
- Black-eyed peas
- Cowpeas
- Field peas
- Crowder peas
- Southern peas
- Purple hull peas
- Pigeon peas
- Pinkeye purple hull peas
- Zipper cream peas
- Lady cream peas
- Yellow-eyed peas
- Peas
The most universally recognized names are black-eyed peas, cowpeas, and field peas. However, the other colloquial names are commonly used in different parts of the Southern U.S.
Origins and History
Black-eyed peas are native to Africa and were brought to North America through the slave trade. They have been grown in the South since the 1700s. The hardy, drought-resistant peas served as a staple food and major source of protein for slaves and poor farmers.
After the Civil War, black-eyed peas continued to be an important crop. As Southerners struggled with poverty, black-eyed peas nourished many families and provided an income source. The peas also replenished the soil through nitrogen fixation.
During Reconstruction, black-eyed peas took on greater meaning as a symbol of luck and prosperity. The tradition of eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day for good fortune came about in this time period.
Regional Variations in Names
While black-eyed peas, cowpeas, and field peas are used everywhere, some names have strong regional ties.
Deep South
In states like Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and South Carolina, the terms field peas, crowder peas, and butter beans are frequently used. Crowder peas refers to a type of field pea that grows closely crowded in the pod.
Southern Atlantic States
In this region, which includes North Carolina, Virginia, and Florida, the names field peas and blackeyes are most common. Purple hull peas may sometimes be used to refer to a specific variety.
Gulf States
In Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma, blackeye peas, purple hull peas, lady cream peas, and pigeon peas are common names. Cajun and Creole dishes with black-eyed peas may call them by the French name pois à l’œil noir.
Appalachian and Ozark Regions
This mountainous area uses the terms field peas, purple hulls, crowder peas, and blackeyes most prevalently. Some specific heirloom varieties have their own names like Turkey Craws.
Common Dishes Featuring Black-Eyed Peas
Black-eyed peas are an essential ingredient in many iconic Southern dishes. Here are some of the most classic ways black-eyed peas are prepared in the region:
Hoppin’ John
This rice and bean dish has many variations across the South. It likely originated in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina and Georgia.
Cowpeas and Ham Hocks
Slow cooked mature cowpeas and ham hocks are simmered together into a hearty pot likker-style dish.
Red Beans and Rice
While red kidney beans are traditional in New Orleans, black-eyed peas are also sometimes used in this Creole/Cajun dish.
Texas Caviar
This is a chilled salad of black-eyed peas marinated in a vinaigrette-style dressing. It was created in the Lone Star State in the 1980s.
Purple Hull Pea Soup
A velvety soup made from purple hull cowpeas is popular in the Deep South and Texas.
Black-Eyed Pea Fritters
These crispy fried fritters are a delicious way to enjoy black-eyed peas as an appetizer or side dish.
Consumption and Production Statistics
Here are some key facts about black-eyed pea consumption and production in the United States:
| Year | Total Production (million cwt) | Planted Acres | Yield per Acre (pounds) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 3.19 | 1.42 million | 1,120 |
| 2019 | 2.15 | 1.1 million | 1,014 |
| 2018 | 3.08 | 1.25 million | 1,232 |
The top producing states are Texas, Georgia, Arkansas, Mississippi, and North Carolina. The U.S. also imports black-eyed peas from countries like China, Canada, and Mexico.
Per capita consumption of pulses, including black-eyed peas, reached a new high in the U.S. in 2020 at 9.3 pounds. That broke the previous record-high set more than five decades prior in 1969.
Cultural Symbolism
Beyond being a dietary staple, black-eyed peas hold deep cultural meaning in the South.
New Year’s Day Tradition
It is considered good luck to eat black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day. This tradition is thought to date back to the Civil War era. The peas represent prosperity for the coming year.
Hoppin’ John
Eating Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day is also meaningful. The peas symbolize luck and the rice abundance.
Cowpeas
As a drought-tolerant, nitrogen-fixing plant, the cowpea represents resilience, adaptability, and self-reliance.
Musical References
Many classic country, blues, and folk songs reference black-eyed peas as a symbol of the working class struggle in the South. Musical mentions appear in songs like “Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Blues” and “Blues Around Midnight.”
Conclusion
Black-eyed peas have been an essential crop and food in the South for over two centuries. Their importance persevered through slavery, Reconstruction, Jim Crow laws, the Great Depression, and modern times. The peas nourished generations and provided hope through difficult circumstances.
These little beans have become ingrained in Southern culture. The black-eyed pea by many names has endured as a symbol of luck, prosperity, resilience, and shared identity in the region.