Fry Bread
Fry Bread is a deliciously simple and versatile dish that warms the heart and soul. Originating from Native American cuisine, this golden-brown delight is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it perfect for savoring on its own or pairing with various toppings.
Whether you’re cooking up a batch for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a fun summer cookout, Fry Bread is sure to bring smiles to the table. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful recipe!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220
- Protein: 5g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 30g per serving
- Fat: 10g per serving
- Fiber: 1g per serving
- Sugar: 0g per serving
- Sodium: 200mg per serving
Why I Love This Fry Bread
Fry Bread holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and good food. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching the dough puff up as it fries, golden and crispy perfection!
It’s an easy recipe that anyone can tackle, even if you’re new to cooking. Whether enjoyed as a savory snack or a sweet treat with honey, there’s just so much joy in each warm bite.
Plus, it’s a fantastic canvas for creativity, allowing me to enjoy it in many different ways!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water or milk
- Oil for frying
How to Make Fry Bread
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 2: Add the Liquid
Gradually add the warm water or milk to the dry mixture. Gently mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until smooth. This helps develop the gluten for a better texture.
Step 4: Let it Rest
Cover your kneaded dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for the perfect fry bread!
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet, heat enough oil over medium heat for frying. You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a small piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Divide the rested dough into small balls, then flatten each ball to about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 7: Fry the Bread
Carefully drop each piece into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 8: Drain and Serve
Remove the fry bread from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a fluffier texture, let the dough rest a little longer—up to an hour if you can!
- Serve with toppings like honey, jelly, or even taco fixings for a fun spin.
- If you’re looking for gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- To spice things up, add a pinch of paprika or cumin to the dough for a zesty flavor twist!
Delicious Variations
- Sopapillas: These fluffy fried pastries are similar to fry bread but are often served with honey for a sweet treat.
- Navajo Tacos: Top fry bread with seasoned ground beef, beans, lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a satisfying meal.
- Bannock: Another traditional bread, often baked or fried, and uses similar ingredients for a different texture.
- Poff Poff: These West African dough balls are deep-fried until golden and often enjoyed as snacks or desserts.
Serving Suggestions for Fry Bread
Fry Bread is best served warm, either plain or with your favorite toppings. Try serving it alongside a hearty stew or chili for a complete meal, or enjoy it with fresh fruit preserves for a delightful snack.
Pairing it with a cold glass of iced tea or a spicy salsa can elevate the experience even more.
For a unique twist, consider making Navajo tacos, where you use fry bread as a base for all your taco fixings!
Storage and Leftovers
To store leftover fry bread, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
You can also freeze it for longer storage—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it will keep for about a month.
To reheat, simply pop it in a hot skillet for a few minutes or in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
Helpful Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may alter the texture and flavor slightly.How do I know if the oil is hot enough?
Drop a small piece of the dough into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready for frying!Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it in the fridge for up to a day before frying. Just let it come to room temperature before cooking.What toppings go well with fry bread?
The options are endless! You can serve it with savory toppings like chili or tacos or sweet toppings like honey and jam.Is fry bread gluten-free?
Traditional fry bread is not gluten-free, but you can make a gluten-free version using a gluten-free flour blend.
Fry Bread is not just a recipe; it’s a tradition filled with flavor, warmth, and love. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy making this delightful bread with those you care about!
Print
Fry Bread
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fry Bread is a deliciously simple and versatile dish that warms the heart and soul, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water or milk
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the warm water or milk to the dry mixture. Gently mix until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until smooth.
- Cover your kneaded dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- In a deep skillet, heat enough oil over medium heat for frying. You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a small piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately.
- Divide the rested dough into small balls, then flatten each ball to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Carefully drop each piece into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the fry bread from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For a fluffier texture, let the dough rest longer—up to an hour. Serve with toppings like honey, jelly, or taco fixings. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Native American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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