Fry Bread Recipe
Fry bread holds a deep cultural significance, particularly in Native American communities. It originated during a difficult time in history, when Native Americans were forcibly relocated to reservations and given limited rations by the U.S. government. With ingredients like flour, sugar, and lard, fry bread was born out of necessity. Over time, it became a symbol of resilience, survival, and cultural identity. Today, it is a beloved dish served at gatherings, powwows, and family meals across many Indigenous communities.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Paper towels
- Rolling pin (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the warm water while stirring the mixture. Continue mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour.
- Once the dough comes together, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help make the dough more manageable when shaping.
- After resting, divide the dough into 6-8 equal-sized balls. You can use a rolling pin to flatten them into rounds about ¼-inch thick, or simply use your hands to shape them. The rounds don’t have to be perfect!
- In a frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when you drop a small piece of dough into it, and it sizzles immediately.
- Carefully place one or two pieces of the dough into the hot oil (depending on the size of your pan).
- Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Use tongs to flip them over halfway through.
- Once the fry bread is golden and crispy on both sides, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve fry bread warm. You can top it with honey, powdered sugar, or jam for a sweet version, or use it as a base for savory toppings like taco meat, lettuce, and cheese.