authentic navajo fry bread recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
authentic navajo fry bread recipe
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The Best authentic navajo fry bread recipe

I’ve been making authentic Navajo fry bread for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to please. It’s a staple in our household, especially during special occasions like holidays and family gatherings.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always excited to get their hands on this delicious treat. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, yet it’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

I love how the combination of warm flour, water, and oil comes together to create a crispy outside and a soft inside – it’s truly magical. When I serve it with a side of honey or powdered sugar, it’s a match made in heaven.

My family can’t get enough of it, and I’m sure yours will love it just as much as we do. We’ve had this recipe for so long now that it’s become a tradition in our home – every time we have company, fry bread is always on the menu.

It’s the perfect comfort food to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether you’re serving it as a snack or as part of a meal, this Navajo fry bread recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners.

Authentic Navajo Fry Bread

Authentic Navajo Fry Bread

4.5 from 952 votes

A traditional fried bread with a crisp golden exterior and soft, airy interior. This simple dough of flour, salt, baking powder, and water is fried until puffed and golden, perfect for savory or sweet toppings.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F)
Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt until evenly combined.
2Slowly pour in 1 1/4 cups warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 2 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding a little more flour if sticky.
4Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes at room temperature.
5Pour vegetable oil into a deep heavy pot to a depth of 2 inches and heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 375°F on a deep-fry thermometer.
6While the oil heats, divide the rested dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each into a smooth ball.
7On a lightly floured surface, pat or roll one dough ball into a 6-inch round about 1/4 inch thick, pressing a small hole in the center to prevent puffing.
8Carefully slide the dough round into the hot oil and fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side until deep golden brown and puffed.
9Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried bread to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
10Repeat with remaining dough balls, ensuring the oil returns to 375°F between batches, and serve warm.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
Clean kitchen towel
Deep heavy pot or Dutch oven
Deep-fry thermometer
Slotted spoon or tongs
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For a savory dish, top with seasoned ground beef, beans, lettuce, cheese, and salsa. For a sweet treat, drizzle with honey or dust with powdered sugar. The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 hours; bring to room temperature before frying.

Watch Video Of How Authentic Navajo Fry Bread Works

This authentic Navajo fry bread recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick snack or want to impress your guests with a delicious side dish.

And let’s not forget the health benefits – when made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil or avocado oil, this recipe can be relatively healthy too. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Navajo Fry Bread

Q: What is Navajo fry bread?

Fry bread is a traditional Navajo dish made from flour, water, and oil. It’s typically served as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes.

Q: Is Navajo fry bread healthy?

Fry bread can be a bit high in calories and fat due to the oil used in its preparation. However, when made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil or avocado oil, it can be a relatively healthy option.

Q: Can I make Navajo fry bread ahead of time?

Fry bread is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead of time by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.

Q: How do I store leftover Navajo fry bread?

Leftover fry bread should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and extra nutrition.

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