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Traditional Indian Fry Bread

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Traditional Indian Fry Bread is a crispy, soft, and versatile dish that’s perfect for both sweet and savory toppings. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a pillowy interior, this fry bread can be enjoyed with honey and powdered sugar or as a base for savory taco fillings. Easy to make with basic pantry ingredients, it’s a great way to connect with Native American culinary traditions while enjoying a delicious snack or meal.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

1 tbsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

2–3 tbsp vegetable oil (or melted shortening)

For Frying:

Vegetable oil or shortening (for deep frying, about 2–3 cups)

Optional Toppings:

Honey and powdered sugar (for sweet fry bread)

Taco fillings (ground beef, lettuce, cheese, salsa, etc.)

Stewed beans or chili (for a savory dish)

Instructions

  • Make the Dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add vegetable oil (or melted shortening) and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
    Gradually add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and pliable but not sticky. Adjust with more flour or water as needed.

  • Rest the Dough:
    Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
    Divide the dough into 8–10 equal-sized balls. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest for 10–15 minutes.

  • Roll Out the Dough:
    On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a circle or oval about ¼-inch thick. Avoid rolling them too thin as they will puff up when frying.

  • Fry the Bread:
    Heat about 1–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat to 350°F–375°F (175°C–190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready.
    Carefully place one piece of dough into the hot oil. It will puff up immediately.
    Fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully using tongs.
    Remove the fry bread from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining dough.

  • Serve and Enjoy:
    Serve the fry bread warm with your choice of toppings.

    • Sweet Option: Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar.

    • Savory Option: Top with taco fillings like seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and salsa for “Indian Tacos.”

    • Simple Option: Enjoy plain with butter or jam.

Notes

Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

Herb-Infused Oil: Add garlic powder or dried herbs to the frying oil for extra flavor.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust the water as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.

Vegan Version: Use plant-based oil or shortening and ensure toppings are vegan-friendly.

Baked Fry Bread: For a healthier option, bake the dough at 425°F (220°C) for 8–10 minutes per side until puffed and golden.

Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/traditional-indian-fry-bread/