authentic fry bread recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best authentic fry bread recipe

I’ve been making fry bread for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for a quick dinner or snack. The best part is that it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

My kids love when I add cheese, sour cream, and chives on top. We’ve even had it as a fun breakfast option by adding scrambled eggs and bacon. Fry bread is a staple in many Native American communities, where it’s often served at gatherings and celebrations.

It’s a dish that brings people together and is full of memories. When I first started making fry bread, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how delicious it was. I followed a recipe from my aunt, who learned it from her mother-in-law.

The key to making great fry bread is to use the right type of flour and to not overmix the dough. I like to use all-purpose flour, but you can also use whole wheat or a combination of the two. Once you’ve mixed the dough, let it rest for a few minutes before rolling it out into small balls and flattening them slightly with your hands.

Then, heat up some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the fry bread until it’s golden brown on both sides.

Authentic Fry Bread

4.6 from 1524 votes

This fry bread is a soft, golden, and slightly chewy flatbread that puffs up beautifully when fried. It is a staple in Native American cuisine, perfect for serving with honey, jam, or savory toppings.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 310 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
3/4 cup warm water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more for frying

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until evenly combined.
2Add the warm water and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, then stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 2 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes at room temperature.
5Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy pot to a depth of about 1 inch.
6Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F on a deep-fry thermometer.
7Divide the rested dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each into a ball.
8On a lightly floured surface, flatten each ball into a 6-inch round disk about 1/4-inch thick, using your hands or a rolling pin.
9Carefully slide one dough round into the hot oil.
10Fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until the bread puffs up and turns deep golden brown.
11Use tongs to flip it once.
12Transfer the fried bread to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
13Repeat with the remaining dough rounds, making sure the oil returns to 350°F between batches.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Clean kitchen towel
Deep skillet or heavy pot
Candy or deep-fry thermometer
Tongs
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 310 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 420mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For a savory version, omit the sugar and serve with chili, cheese, and lettuce. The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 hours before frying. Let the oil come back to temperature between each batch to ensure even cooking.

Watch Video Of How Authentic Fry Bread Works

I love that this recipe is so versatile – we’ve had it as a main course, side dish, or even dessert. It’s perfect for any occasion or family gathering because everyone can customize their own with their favorite toppings.

We also love that this recipe is relatively healthy compared to other fried foods – just be mindful of how much oil you’re using! If you’re looking for a fun breakfast option, try adding scrambled eggs and bacon on top of your fry bread.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Fry Bread

What type of flour should I use for fry bread?

You can use all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, or a combination of both.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough to cook the fry bread?

The oil is hot enough when it reaches 350°F (180°C). You can check this by using a thermometer or by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil – if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Can I make fry bread ahead of time?

You can make the dough ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the fry bread fresh for optimal taste and texture.

How do I store leftover fry bread?

You can store leftover fry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze fry bread?

You can freeze cooked fry bread for up to 2 months – simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to eat it.

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