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Fry Bread Tacos

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  • Author: Alice
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Snack, Side Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Fry Bread Tacos, also known as Navajo Tacos, are a beloved Native American dish featuring crispy, golden-fried bread topped with savory seasoned meat, beans, fresh vegetables, cheese, and tangy salsa. This hearty comfort food combines fluffy fry bread with bold, flavorful toppings for a fun and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.


Ingredients

For the Fry Bread:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ¾ cup warm water

  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Toppings:

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey

  • 1 packet taco seasoning

  • 1 can (15 oz) refried beans

  • Shredded lettuce

  • Diced tomatoes

  • Chopped onions

  • Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend

  • Salsa or pico de gallo

  • Sour cream

  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  • Make Fry Bread Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add warm water and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead lightly on a floured surface until smooth.

  • Rest Dough: Cover dough with a clean towel and let rest for 30 minutes.

  • Prepare Meat: In a skillet, cook ground meat over medium heat until browned. Drain fat, add taco seasoning and water as directed on the packet. Simmer until thickened.

  • Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).

  • Fry Bread: Divide dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and flatten into a 6-inch round. Fry each piece until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

  • Assemble Tacos: Spread refried beans on each fry bread, add seasoned meat, then top with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese, salsa, sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro.

  • Serve: Enjoy immediately while fry bread is warm and crispy.


Notes

Dough can be refrigerated overnight; bring to room temperature before frying.Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal for frying due to high smoke points.Reheat fry bread in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness if needed.Baking fry bread is possible but frying yields the best texture.Make smaller fry breads for mini tacos or appetizers.