Fry Bread

Steps

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 2: Gradually add warm water to the dry mixture while stirring continuously. Mix until the dough comes together and forms a soft, slightly sticky ball.

Step 3: Knead the dough gently on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into balls. Cover the dough balls with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Heat a large skillet or deep-fryer with vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).

Step 6: Take one dough ball at a time and flatten it into a round disc using your hands or a rolling pin. The disc should be about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 7: Carefully place the flattened dough into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it turns golden brown and puffs up.

Step 8: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried bread to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 9: Repeat the frying process with the remaining dough balls, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet or deep-fryer.

Step 10: Serve the fry bread warm and enjoy it as is or with various toppings such as honey, powdered sugar, taco fillings, or other preferred ingredients.

Note: Fry bread can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or used as a base for dishes like Indian tacos, Navajo tacos, or other creative recipes.

Substitutions

Substitutions for Fry Bread in American cuisine:

1. All-purpose flour:
- 1 cup of self-rising flour (omit baking powder and salt if using this substitute)
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour (resulting bread will be denser)

2. Baking powder:
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda + 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar

3. Salt:
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt (adjust seasoning as per taste)

4. Milk:
- 1 cup of buttermilk (may result in a tangier flavor)
- 1 cup of water (bread will be less rich)

5. Vegetable shortening:
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil (adjust consistency of dough if needed)

Note: Fry bread is traditionally made with simple ingredients, so substitutions may alter the taste and texture slightly. Adjustments may be required in the cooking time and temperature to ensure proper browning and doneness.

Pairings

- Navajo tacos
- Indian tacos
- Chili
- Stews
- Soups
- Native American-inspired dishes
- Pulled pork
- BBQ meats
- Salsa and guacamole
- Cheese and charcuterie
- Fried chicken
- Grilled vegetables
- Corn on the cob
- Corned beef and cabbage
- Buffalo wings
- Chili con carne
- Nachos and cheese dip
- Pulled beef or pork sandwiches
- Sloppy joes
- Barbecue ribs
- Smoked brisket
- Fried fish or seafood
- Coleslaw
- Pickles and relishes
- Baked beans
- Macaroni and cheese
- Cornbread
- Sweet toppings like honey, powdered sugar, or cinnamon sugar
- Ice cream or sorbet for dessert

Upgrades

1. Improve presentation:
- Serve the fry bread on a bed of fresh mixed greens or microgreens for an elegant touch.
- Drizzle a vibrant sauce, such as chipotle aioli or cilantro lime dressing, in a decorative pattern over the fry bread.
- Garnish with colorful edible flowers, sliced scallions, or finely chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro.

2. Improve texture/flavor profile:
- Incorporate a variety of flours like whole wheat or cornmeal to add depth and texture to the fry bread.
- Add a pinch of spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or garlic powder to enhance the flavor profile.
- Experiment with different cooking fats, such as clarified butter or duck fat, for a richer taste.

3. Elevate with luxurious/premium ingredients:
- Top the fry bread with a generous portion of seared foie gras or thinly sliced truffle for an indulgent twist.
- Add a dollop of caviar or salmon roe for a burst of luxury and brininess.
- Substitute regular toppings with premium ingredients like smoked salmon, lobster, or thinly sliced Wagyu beef.

Remember to adapt these suggestions to your personal taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Enjoy your next-level fry bread dining experience!

Diet Restrictions

- Use whole wheat flour instead of white flour to increase fiber content and promote better digestion.
- Replace frying with baking or air frying to reduce the amount of added fats and calories.
- Use plant-based oils, such as olive or avocado oil, instead of saturated fats like lard or butter.
- Opt for low-fat or non-dairy alternatives, such as almond or oat milk, instead of regular whole milk.
- For gluten-free diets, substitute wheat flour with gluten-free flour blends like rice flour or almond flour.
- Reduce the amount of salt in the recipe or use low-sodium alternatives to accommodate those with hypertension or high blood pressure.
- Add nutritious ingredients like ground flaxseed, chia seeds, or grated vegetables to boost the nutritional value.
- Serve fry bread with lean protein sources like grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu, instead of high-fat meats like bacon or sausage.
- Offer a variety of fresh toppings like sliced tomatoes, lettuce, avocado, and low-fat yogurt as alternatives to heavy sauces or creams.
- For individuals with diabetes, consider using sugar substitutes or reducing the amount of added sugar in the recipe.

Healthy Choices

- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase fiber content.
- Incorporate a small amount of ground flaxseed or chia seeds for added omega-3 fatty acids.
- Opt for baking instead of frying the bread to reduce the amount of oil used.
- Replace some of the flour with mashed sweet potato or pumpkin puree for added nutrients and natural sweetness.
- Use a healthier oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, for frying if baking is not preferred.
- Reduce the amount of salt in the recipe or use a salt substitute to lower sodium intake.
- Serve with a variety of nutritious toppings like fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products instead of high-fat or processed toppings.
- Experiment with adding herbs and spices to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive salt or sugar.

Shortcuts

1. Use self-rising flour: Replace all-purpose flour with self-rising flour to skip the step of adding baking powder and salt separately.

2. Opt for a deep fryer: Invest in a deep fryer to speed up the frying process and ensure even cooking.

3. Make smaller portions: Instead of making large fry breads, prepare smaller ones to reduce cooking time and oil usage.

4. Preheat oil on high heat: Heat the oil at a higher temperature to shorten the frying time while maintaining a crispy texture.

5. Use a dough hook: Utilize a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to quickly knead the dough instead of doing it manually.

6. Prepare dough in advance: Make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking.

7. Opt for a thinner dough: Roll out the dough to a thinner consistency to reduce cooking time and oil absorption.

8. Use a cast-iron skillet: Instead of deep frying, cook the fry bread in a cast-iron skillet to save oil and achieve a similar taste.

9. Choose alternative toppings: Experiment with cost-effective toppings like powdered sugar, honey, or cinnamon instead of expensive ingredients.

10. Serve as a side dish: Instead of making fry bread the main course, serve it as a side dish to reduce the quantity required and overall cost.

Amounts

Calories