As February concludes, it’s fitting to honor Annie Fisher, a remarkable local figure from mid-Missouri whose name is deeply connected to food security efforts in Columbia, MO. Born in Boone County on December 3, 1867, Annie Fisher overcame the hardships of her parents’ formerly enslaved status, starting work at a young age to support her family. She became a celebrated cook and successful catering entrepreneur, but it was her signature beaten biscuits that brought her nationwide acclaim. Orders for Annie’s biscuits poured in from across the country, reaching destinations as far as New York and California.
Beyond her famous biscuits, Annie Fisher’s catering business flourished, making her the preferred choice for prestigious events in the Columbia, MO area. Demonstrating astute business acumen, Annie managed every aspect of her ventures, from raising hogs for her renowned country hams to overseeing numerous rental properties.
For those inspired to try Annie Fisher’s famed beaten biscuits, she generously shared her recipe, often adding that a bit of common sense was key to their perfect execution.
Annie Fisher’s Beaten Biscuits Recipe:
- 1 quart of sifted flour
- 1/3 cup of pure lard
- 1/3 cup of butter
- 1 cup of sweetened water
- Salt to taste
Instructions: Thoroughly combine all ingredients. For light and fluffy biscuits, beat the dough for 15 minutes. Alternatively, use a food processor for easier preparation. This recipe allows you to experience a taste of culinary history while reflecting on Annie Fisher’s significant impact on Columbia, MO, and the ongoing mission of the food bank columbia mo to combat food insecurity.
