The Pitchfork Land and Cattle Company of West Texas had already established a reputation for the high quality of its cattle and horses when D and Mamie Burns arrived on the ranch in 1942. D became the fifth manager of the ranch’s vast holdings, and Mamie took over management of the ranch’s Big House, including the feeding and entertaining of many guests who arrived there to conduct business or simply unwind. The recipes and reminiscences in Mamie’s notes, reproduced in this book, show that she certainly enjoyed setting a bountiful table. Although she tells us, “On the Ranch I cooked more and enjoyed it less than anyone alive, I guess,” her recipes, and her comments on the life of the ranch, show her enthusiasm for preparing wonderful food to enjoy with treasured friends, family, and ranch visitors. This book will give you a taste of her special dishes, as well as a glimpse of West Texas ranch life as it was lived by Mamie and D Burns, their cowboys, and other ranch hands.
