Navajo Fry Bread is a cherished part of Native American cuisine, celebrated for its crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
Whether enjoyed sweet or savory, it offers a versatile canvas for a variety of toppings, making it a delightful snack or hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp powdered milk
- 1½ cups warm water
- 1 cup shortening
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and powdered milk.
Step 2: Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
Flatten each ball into a thin round disk, about ¼ inch thick. Use extra flour as needed.
Step 5: Heat the shortening in a large skillet or deep fryer to about 375°F (190°C).
Step 6: Carefully fry each dough disk until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Drain on paper towels and repeat with remaining dough.
Step 7: Serve warm with toppings of your choice—savory or sweet—and enjoy!
Notes
Maintain consistent oil temperature for crispy frybread.
Work quickly with the dough to prevent it from toughening.
Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Indian Frybread?
A traditional Native American dish of fried dough, enjoyed at powwows and gatherings, with both sweet and savory topping options.
2. Is Indian Frybread the same as Navajo Frybread?
While closely associated with Navajo cuisine, frybread is celebrated across many Native American tribes with regional variations.
3. Can it be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before shaping and frying.
4. How do I make it keto-friendly?
Substitute almond or coconut flour for all-purpose flour and fry in coconut or avocado oil for a low-carb option.
5. What are traditional toppings?
Honey, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar for sweet versions, or beans, ground meat, cheese, and veggies for savory takes.
Navajo Fry Bread
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp powdered milk
- 1½ cups warm water
- 1 cup shortening
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and powdered milk.
- Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a thin round disk, about ¼ inch thick. Use extra flour as needed.
- Heat the shortening in a large skillet or deep fryer to about 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully fry each dough disk until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and repeat with remaining dough.
- Serve warm with toppings of your choice—savory or sweet—and enjoy!
