Navajo fry bread is a Native American staple and a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side, a base for various toppings, or even as a dessert. This recipe provides clear instructions on how to make Navajo fry bread from scratch. With a crisp, golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, this fry bread is sure to be a hit at your next meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the warm water to the flour mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands, until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Flatten each dough ball into a round disc, stretching it gently with your hands.
- Carefully add one or two dough discs to the hot oil, frying them for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fry bread onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining dough balls.
- Serve the Navajo fry bread warm with savory toppings like ground beef, beans, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes, or sprinkle some powdered sugar and honey for a sweet treat.
Interesting Facts
Navajo fry bread originated in the mid-1800s when the Navajo people were forced to relocate to Bosque Redondo, New Mexico, during the Navajo Long Walk.
The fry bread became a staple food for the Navajo people as it could be made using simple ingredients and cooked on an open fire.
Navajo fry bread is often served at tribal gatherings and celebrations as a symbol of unity and resilience.