Hoppin' John and Collard Greens

Any self-respecting and God-fearing American who has spent more than just visiting time south of the Mason-Dixon line knows that "Southern Cooking" is a term that should always be capitalized. For example, there's fried chicken, then there's Southern Fried Chicken. There's barbecue, then there's Southern Barbecue. Anyone who doesn't recognize the inexplicable, almost spiritual, essence of Southern Cooking has no sense of taste.

Exhibiting the essence of spirituality of Southern Cooking is the New Year's Day meal which must include Hoppin' John and greens. Hoppin' John (cowpeas and rice) brings good luck and the greens bring the promise of future wealth. Put them on the menu with about a dozen hours of televised football games and you've achieved the perfect gourmet feast.