Happy New Year Hoppin' John Black-Eyed Peas

Here's a vegetarian version of traditional Southern New Year's Day black-eyed peas.  Enjoy and may they bring you a lucky and prosperous 2010.

You can use canned, fresh or dried black-eyed peas.  I soaked one cup of dried peas overnight, otherwise you can use 2 cups fresh or 2 cans.

Saute in a large pot:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion
2 minced garlic cloves
1/2 teaspoon chives
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon allspice
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Add 2 cups water and 1 1/2 teaspoons of soy sauce.  Bring to a boil, then lower to simmer.  Simmer until beans are soft and most of the liquid has steamed off.  Serve over rice.  Optional toppings include tomatoes, parsley, sour cream or grated cheese.