I made fry bread last night and this is my tried and true recipe.
Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 1/4 cups milk
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, melt the butter.
Add the melted butter and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands to knead the dough until it’s smooth and uniform.
Let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
After the resting period, divide the dough into small balls. The size of the balls will determine the size of your fry bread, so you can make them as big or small as you prefer.
On a floured surface, flatten each ball of dough into a circle. You can use a rolling pin or your hands to do this. The thickness of the dough should be about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm).
In a deep frying pan or a deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to around 350-375°F (175-190°C).
Carefully slide the flattened dough into the hot oil, one at a time. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan, as they need space to puff up and cook evenly.
Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until it turns golden brown and puffs up. Use tongs to flip the fry bread and remove it from the oil when both sides are nicely browned.
Place the fried bread on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve your delicious fry bread warm. You can enjoy it with a variety of toppings, such as honey, powdered sugar, or as a base for savory toppings like taco ingredients.
1. What is fry bread? Fry bread is a traditional Native American food that originated with various Indigenous tribes in the United States. It is a simple flatbread made from basic ingredients like flour, water, salt, and leavening agents, which are then fried until golden brown.
2. How is fry bread made? Fry bread is made by mixing flour, salt, water, and baking powder (or sometimes yeast) to form a dough. The dough is then divided into portions, flattened into rounds or shapes, and deep-fried until puffy and golden.
3. What is the cultural significance of fry bread? Fry bread holds cultural and historical significance for many Native American tribes. It originated during times of hardship when traditional ingredients were scarce. Today, it is a symbol of Native American culture and heritage, often served at gatherings, powwows, and other events.
4. Can fry bread be sweet or savory? Yes, fry bread can be both sweet and savory. It can be served as a base for various toppings, such as powdered sugar and honey for a sweet version or ground beef, lettuce, cheese, and other ingredients for a savory version known as Indian tacos.
5. What regions or tribes are known for fry bread? Fry bread is popular among many Native American tribes across the United States, including the Navajo, Apache, Pueblo, and others. It is especially prevalent in the southwestern and Plains regions.
6. Is fry bread vegan? The basic ingredients of fry bread (flour, water, salt, and leavening agents) are vegan. However, some recipes might include dairy products like milk or powdered milk, so it’s essential to check the specific recipe if you’re following a vegan diet.
7. How is fry bread traditionally served? Fry bread can be served in various ways, such as topped with powdered sugar and honey, served with jams or fruit preserves, or used as a base for savory dishes like Indian tacos, which typically include beans, ground meat, lettuce, cheese, and other toppings.
8. Can fry bread be made gluten-free? Yes, there are gluten-free versions of fry bread that use alternative flours like rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. These recipes allow individuals with gluten intolerances or allergies to enjoy this traditional dish.
9. Is fry bread the same as Indian fry bread or Navajo fry bread? Yes, the terms “Indian fry bread” and “Navajo fry bread” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same dish. The name might vary based on the region or tribe preparing it, but the basic recipe and preparation method are similar.
10. How should leftover fry bread be stored? Leftover fry bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. To retain its crispiness, it’s best to reheat it in an oven or toaster oven before serving.
