traditional fry bread recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best traditional fry bread recipe

I have been making traditional fry bread for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The recipe originated from the Navajo Nation, where it’s been a staple food for centuries.

I love how the crispy exterior gives way to a soft, fluffy interior, and the subtle sweetness of the dough is perfectly balanced by the savory flavors of cheese, beans, or meat. My kids can’t get enough of it, and it’s a perfect recipe for any occasion – whether we’re having a family dinner or just need a quick snack.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. I’ve even started experimenting with different toppings and fillings to keep things interesting.

My husband swears by the combination of melted cheese and sliced jalapenos on top of a warm fry bread slice – it’s a game-changer. I’m excited to share this recipe with you today so you can experience the joy of traditional fry bread for yourself.

Traditional Fry Bread Recipe

4.7 from 1737 votes

Fry bread is a traditional Native American dish. This simple recipe creates a soft, savory bread that is perfect for any meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups warm water

For the Fry Bread

Vegetable oil for frying

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt.
2Gradually add the warm water while whisking until a soft dough forms.
3The dough should be slightly sticky.
4If it is too dry, add a bit more water.
5If it is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
6Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
7This allows the baking powder to activate and the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to handle.
8After resting, the dough should be smooth and elastic.
9Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
10On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll out each ball until it is about 1/4 inch thick.
11If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour to the surface.
12If it is too dry, add a bit more water to the dough.
13In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F.
14Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
15If you do not have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it.
16If it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready.
17Be careful not to let the oil get too hot, as this can cause the bread to burn on the outside before it is cooked on the inside.
18Using a slotted spoon, carefully place 2-3 dough circles into the hot oil.
19Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
20Use the slotted spoon to flip the bread and remove it from the oil.
21Place the fried bread on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
22Repeat with the remaining dough, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
23Serve the fry bread warm, topped with your favorite toppings.
24Some popular options include honey, powdered sugar, or jam.
25You can also serve it as a side dish with soups or stews.
26Enjoy your traditional fry bread.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Large skillet or deep fryer
Slotted spoon
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Watch Video Of How Traditional Fry Bread Recipe Works

This traditional fry bread recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick snack.

One of my favorite storage tips is to let leftover fry bread cool completely before storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

When reheating, simply place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) until crispy and golden brown.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Fry Bread

Q: What is the difference between fry bread and other types of flatbread?

Fry bread is made with a specific type of flour that gives it a unique texture and flavor. Unlike other flatbreads, fry bread is typically deep-fried in oil until crispy, which adds an extra layer of crunch.

Q: Can I use self-raising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

No, self-raising flour will not yield the same results as all-purpose flour in this recipe. All-purpose flour provides a more neutral flavor and better texture.

Q: How do I prevent my fry bread from becoming too greasy?

To minimize greasiness, pat your dough pieces dry with paper towels before frying them in hot oil.

Q: Can I bake the dough instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the dough in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. However, keep in mind that baked fry bread won’t have the same crispy exterior as deep-fried one.

Q: Are there any variations on this traditional recipe that I can try?

Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as shredded chicken or beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, or even sliced pimentos for added flavor.

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