Black -eyed Peas Parfaits

photo and recipe via famly fun

Tradition has it that Black-eyed peas are served on New Years Day as a symbol of good luck. In some Southern traditions, a dime is buried among the black-eyed peas before serving. If you find the dime in your serving you will have good luck throughout the year. OK...I'm not really a huge fan of the legume, but if served in a cute festive way, I may just have to try it. Plus I wouldn't mind some good luck in 2011!   How about serving up these black eyed peas parfait (maybe in smaller portions per guest) at your New Years event so all of your guests will have a year of good luck!

Ingredients

• 2 bacon strips, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups chopped red or green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups fresh or frozen black-eyed peas
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
• Sour cream and cherry tomatoes (for garnish)

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, saute the bacon for 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup of the bell pepper, the onion, the chopped tomato, the chili powder, the salt and pepper, and the black-eyed peas. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a low boil, then simmer it uncovered for 1 hour or more, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed.

1. Layer the peas, rice, cheese, and remaining bell pepper in parfait glasses. Top with sour cream and a cherry tomato. Serves 6 to 8.
2. Layer the peas, rice, cheese, and remaining bell pepper in parfait glasses. Top with sour cream and a cherry tomato. Serves 6 to 8.