Fry Bread Taco Recipe

The Fry Bread 

Fry Bread is a simple dough that is deep-fried until puffed and golden.

 

Ingredients for Fry Bread

• 3 cups All-Purpose Flour

• 1 tablespoon Baking Powder

• 1 teaspoon Salt

• 1 cup Warm Water (or enough to form a soft dough)

• 2 tablespoons Oil or Shortening (melted, for the dough)

• Vegetable Oil or Lard (for frying)

Instructions for Fry Bread

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted oil/shortening into the flour mixture, followed by the warm water. Mix everything together with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. Do not over-knead, as this can make the bread tough.

4. Rest the Dough: Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for at least 30 minutes (up to 1 hour). This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll.

5. Prepare for Frying: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large, heavy pot or deep skillet to 375 degrees Fahrenheit / 190 degrees Celsius. You will know it's ready when a small piece of dough dropped in sizzles immediately.

6. Shape the Bread: Divide the dough into 10-12 equal pieces. Working with one piece at a time, stretch, pat, or gently roll the dough into a round or oval shape about 1 inch thick. You can poke a small hole in the center to help it cook evenly.

7. Fry: Carefully slide the shaped dough into the hot oil. Fry for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, flipping once, until the bread is puffed and golden brown.
   

8. Drain: Remove the fry bread with tongs and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep warm while you prepare the chili/taco topping

 

The Taco Topping (Spicy Ground Beef/Bison)

This is the savory component that gives the taco its flavor and substance.

Ingredients for Topping

• 1 pounds Ground Beef, Bison, or Turkey (lean)

• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

• 1 medium Yellow Onion, diced

• 2 cloves Garlic, minced

• 1 (15 oz) can Tomato Sauce

• 1 (15 oz) can Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained (optional, but recommended)

• 2 tablespoons Chili Powder

• 1 teaspoon Cumin

• 1 teaspoon Oregano

• 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)

• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (or to taste)

Instructions for Topping

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. Brown the Meat: Add the ground meat to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease.

3. Season and Simmer: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add Liquid/Beans: Pour in the tomato sauce and add the rinsed kidney beans (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The mixture should be thick, not watery.

Assembly & Toppings

This is where the magic happens! The generous toppings piled onto the warm fry bread.

Recommended Toppings

• Shredded Lettuce (iceberg or romaine)

• Diced Tomatoes

• Shredded Cheddar or Colby Jack Cheese

• Sour Cream or Plain Greek Yogurt

• Diced Black Olives (optional)

• Salsa (optional)

To Assemble

1. Place a warm piece of Fry Bread on a plate.

2. Spoon a generous amount of the Taco Topping (Chili) over the center of the bread.

3. Pile on the fresh toppings: Lettuce, Tomatoes, and Cheese.

4. Finish with a dollop of Sour Cream or Salsa.

5. Serve immediately and enjoy the feast!