How to Make Native American Fry Bread

How to Make Native American Fry Bread

Fry bread is a traditional Native American dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple and versatile bread that can be eaten on its own or used as a base for various toppings and fillings. If you’re looking to try your hand at making this delicious treat, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will walk you through the process of making Native American fry bread from scratch. So let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Flatten each dough ball into a thin, round disc. You can use your hands or a rolling pin for this.
7. Carefully place the flattened dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on each side. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Remove the fry bread from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Repeat the frying process with the remaining dough balls.
10. Serve the fry bread warm and enjoy!

Now that you know how to make Native American fry bread, here are a few tips and variations to enhance your fry bread-making experience:

Tips:

• Make sure the water you add to the dough is warm, but not too hot. This helps activate the baking powder and creates a light and fluffy texture.
• When frying the dough, maintain a consistent oil temperature. Too low of a temperature can result in greasy fry bread, while too high of a temperature can cause the bread to burn.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Fry the bread in small batches to ensure even cooking and prevent the bread from sticking together.

Variations:

• Add a touch of sweetness to your fry bread by sprinkling it with powdered sugar or drizzling it with honey or maple syrup.
• Stuff your fry bread with savory fillings like taco meat, beans, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes to create a delicious Navajo taco.
• For a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

My 2 Cents:

Native American fry bread is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, it’s a treat that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Making fry bread from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and experiment with different flavors. So why not give it a try and experience the taste of Native American cuisine today? Happy cooking!