Today’s the day when people in Texas traditionally eat black eyed peas, and people in some Asian cultures eat long noodles. For luck, or prosperity, or just because it’s cold outside and we need something warm and filling.

My New Year’s Day meal for the past couple of years: Hoppin’ John Pho, which is veggie broth seasoned with whatever spices I feel like, long thin rice noodles, and some sauteed black eyed peas, onions, and greens. It’s delicious.