basic fry bread recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best basic fry bread recipe

Fry bread is a staple in many Native American communities, particularly in the Southwest. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that consists of a dough made from flour, water, and salt, deep-fried to perfection.

The process of making fry bread is quite straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

My kids love helping me mix the dough and watching it transform into crispy, golden-brown goodness. We often serve fry bread as a side dish for our meals, but it’s also perfect for snacking or as a base for other dishes like tacos or sandwiches.

One of the best things about fry bread is its versatility – you can top it with anything from butter and honey to cheese and chili. It’s also relatively healthy compared to other fried foods, thanks to the use of whole wheat flour and minimal oil.

My husband and I have even experimented with adding different herbs and spices to the dough for added flavor. Overall, fry bread is a great addition to any meal or gathering, and I’m excited to share this simple yet delicious recipe with you.

Basic Fry Bread

4.9 from 584 votes

A simple and versatile fried bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and can be served with savory toppings or sweet honey and butter.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil for the dough
Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt until combined.
2Make a well in the center and pour in 1 cup warm water and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil.
3Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
4Knead the dough gently for about 2 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, adding a little more flour if it feels too sticky.
5Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes at room temperature.
6This resting period relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to shape.
7After resting, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
8On a floured surface, flatten each ball into a 6-inch round about 1/4 inch thick, using your hands or a rolling pin.
9Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 1 inch and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F on a candy or deep-fry thermometer.
10If you do not have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.
11Carefully place one dough round into the hot oil and fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed.
12Use a slotted spoon or tongs to flip the bread once the bottom is deep golden brown, then fry the second side until equally browned.
13Transfer the fried bread to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
14Repeat with the remaining dough rounds, allowing the oil to return to 350°F between batches for consistent results.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Wooden spoon
Clean kitchen towel
Deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot
Candy or deep-fry thermometer
Slotted spoon or tongs
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pastry flour instead of all-purpose flour. Serve warm with honey, powdered sugar, or savory toppings like chili and cheese.

Watch Video Of How Basic Fry Bread Works

This basic fry bread recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether you are hosting a taco night or just want a quick snack. It works well for family gatherings because everyone can customize their own piece with sweet or savory toppings.

I love that it is simple enough for beginners but still feels like a treat. For storage, let any leftover fry bread cool completely, then wrap it in foil and keep it at room temperature for up to two days.

To reheat, pop it in a toaster oven or a dry skillet for a few minutes until it crisps up again. You can also freeze the fried bread for up to a month and reheat directly from frozen.

Serve it alongside chili, stew, or with butter and jam for breakfast. It is a versatile recipe that never disappoints.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Fry Bread

Q: What is the history behind fry bread?

Fry bread has its roots in Native American cuisine, specifically among the Navajo people.

Q: What kind of flour should I use for this recipe?

For the best results, use whole wheat flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour.

Q: Can I make fry bread ahead of time?

Sure! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight or freeze it for up to a month.

Q: How do I keep fry bread fresh for longer?

To keep your fry bread fresh for longer, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.

Q: Can I make variations on this recipe?

Yes! You can add different herbs and spices to the dough for added flavor or try using different types of oil for frying.

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