It was while we lived in Amish country, early in our marriage, that my habit for New Year’s Day was set. The tradition there was to eat roast pork, sauerkraut and black-eyed peas.

The pork, as a fatter meat, signified wealth. The sauerkraut is part of a legend that says cabbage leaves symbolize currency. The black-eyed peas are meant for luck, apparently based on some old superstition around the idea of peas and plenty.

In other words, eat this and expect lots of money and a little luck thrown in. I’ve been fixing some version of the meal for years, and can’t say it’s brought either, but, on the other hand, it hasn’t hurt any. There are worse reasons to spend a little time in the kitchen, making a delicious dinner for your family!

So, tonight we are sitting down to our apple seasoned pork roast with sauerkraut, black-eyed peas, homemade applesauce and fresh mashed potatoes with gravy.

Here’s to good fortune and many happy meals in 2010.

Try this pork tenderloin recipe for your own good luck!