introduction
Navajo Fry Bread is a simple, crisp flat bread fried in oil. It is light inside and golden outside. People eat it plain, with honey, or as a base for savory toppings.
why make this recipe
- It uses few ingredients you likely have at home.
- It cooks fast and feeds a crowd.
- It is versatile — sweet or savory.
- It keeps the taste of a traditional recipe.
how to make Navajo Fry Bread
Make the dough, shape small rounds, and fry until golden. Keep the oil hot but not smoking. Fry a few pieces at a time so they cook evenly.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- Oil for frying
Directions :
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually stir in the warm water until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until smooth.
- Divide the dough into balls and flatten each ball into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan.
- Carefully drop the flattened dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm, either as a savory taco base or topped with honey for a sweet treat.
how to serve Navajo Fry Bread
Serve warm. For savory, top with seasoned meat, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and beans to make an Indian taco. For sweet, drizzle honey, add powdered sugar, or spread jam.
how to store Navajo Fry Bread
- At room temperature: store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- In the fridge: keep up to 2 days in a sealed container.
- To reheat: warm in a hot oven (350°F / 175°C) for 5–7 minutes or toast lightly in a pan until crisp.
tips to make Navajo Fry Bread
- Use warm water to help the dough come together easily.
- Do not over-knead; knead until smooth, not stiff.
- Keep the oil hot but not smoking (around medium-high).
- Fry a few pieces at a time so oil temperature stays steady.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
variation (if any)
- Sweet: sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or honey.
- Savory: mix herbs into the dough or brush with garlic butter after frying.
- Healthier: bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping once, though texture will be different.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead?
A: Yes. You can make the dough and refrigerate it for a few hours. Let it warm to near room temperature before shaping and frying.
Q: How do I know the oil is hot enough?
A: Drop a small piece of dough in the oil. It should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly but not burn.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour?
A: You can, but the bread will be denser. Mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a better texture.
Q: Are Navajo Fry Bread and Indian fry bread the same?
A: Yes. Navajo Fry Bread is often called Indian fry bread. Both refer to the same style of fried dough.
Q: Can I freeze fry bread?
A: You can freeze cooled fry bread in a freezer bag for up to one month. Reheat in the oven from frozen until warm.
Conclusion
For another clear recipe and background on Navajo fry bread, see Navajo Fry Bread – Mayuri’s Jikoni.
Print
Navajo Fry Bread
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Navajo Fry Bread is a light and crispy flatbread that is perfect as a savory taco base or topped with honey for a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually stir in the warm water until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until smooth.
- Divide the dough into balls and flatten each ball into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan.
- Carefully drop the flattened dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm, topped with your choice of savory or sweet toppings.
Notes
Keep the oil hot but not smoking, and fry a few pieces at a time to ensure even cooking. Store at room temperature for up to 1 day, or in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Native American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
