Miriam Amanda Wallace (1875-1961) was born into a family rich in Texas land and cattle. She married wealthy James Ferguson, who became governor of Texas in 1914. During his second term, he was convicted of irregularities and imprisoned. M.A. Ferguson (her name shortened to Ma by the press) was elected governor in 1924 and again in 1932. She pardoned her husband and hundreds of other prisoners. Reviews are mixed, but she left her mark on Texas politics. Here is her pie recipe:
Ma Ferguson's Pecan Cream Pie
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup chopped pecans
2 tbs. flour
2 eggs, separated, using whites for topping
1 cup milk
1 tbs. butter
2 tsp. vanilla
1 baked 9 inch pie crust
TOPPING:
1/4 cup sugar
14 tsp. vanilla
2 tbs. finely chopped pecans
Combine sugar, pecans, and flour in a heavy saucepan; stir well. Combine egg yolks and milk in a mixing bowl, mix well.
Gradually add milk mixture to pecan mixture, stirring until well blended. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat: add butter, and 2 tbs. vanilla, stirring until butter melts. Pour into pastry shell.
Beat egg whites (at room temp) until foamy. Add 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff peaks from. Beat in 1/4 tsp/ vanilla. Spread meringue over top of pie filling, making sure edges are sealed. Sprinkle with pecans. Bake at 400.F for 10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool....ENJOY!
