Fry Bread is a beloved dish with deep cultural roots in Native American cuisine, often served at gatherings, powwows, and family meals. It is known for its crisp, golden exterior and soft, fluffy interior, making it versatile enough to be enjoyed sweet or savory. Originally created from government-issued rations during the 19th century, fry bread became both a survival food and a cultural symbol. Today, it’s served in many ways — topped with honey, powdered sugar, or cinnamon for a sweet treat, or loaded with savory toppings like beans, cheese, and meat to make “Indian Tacos.” This simple yet comforting bread has stood the test of time and continues to be cherished across generations.
Preparation Time
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Preparation: 15 minutes
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Resting: 30 minutes
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Cooking: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
Serving Size
Makes 8 pieces of fry bread.
Ingredients
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons baking powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 ½ cups warm water (may need slightly more or less)
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Vegetable oil for frying
Detailed Recipe
Step 1 – Prepare the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 2 – Knead and rest
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 3–4 minutes until smooth. Place it back into the bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for about 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
Step 3 – Shape the bread
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll or pat each portion into a flat, round disc about ¼-inch thick. For traditional fry bread, make a small hole in the center of each disc to help it cook evenly and avoid puffing up too much in the middle.
Step 4 – Heat the oil
Pour vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches about 350°F (175°C).
Step 5 – Fry the bread
Carefully place one or two pieces of dough into the hot oil. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed. Use tongs to turn them over. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
Step 6 – Drain and serve
Remove the fry bread from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm. For a sweet version, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar. For a savory version, top with seasoned beans, meat, shredded lettuce, cheese, and salsa to make an Indian Taco.
