Black-eyed legumes or beans are a favorite in many households. Made on their own or mixed with minced meat or other ingredients make a wonderful and healthy meal. Black-eyed beans are small, creamy-flavored beans with a black ‘scar’ where they were joined to the pod. They are much used in American and African cooking and are the essential ingredient in a traditional southern-style dish known as Hoppin’ John (a mixture of black-eyed beans, bacon, and white rice, traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day).