The Southern field pea tradition is far more diverse than the familiar black-eyed pea might suggest. Blue Goose is a distinctive heirloom cowpea with speckled coloring and a dense but creamy texture. Like other field peas, it produces a flavorful cooking broth, traditionally enjoyed with rice, greens and cornbread. These are the kinds of humble, deeply satisfying legumes that have sustained Southern kitchens for generations, especially when simmered with a little smoked pork or simply with onions and herbs.