How to Make Easy Fry Bread

American Indian fry bread, like most ethnic recipes, has countless variations. At its most basic, fry bread is a very simple dough made of staple pantry items that's fried, and not baked. The traditional ingredients originally came from from menial government-issued food rations distributed to the Navajo when they were forced to relocate to barren reservations in New Mexico. Despite its dark roots, fry bread is, for many, a symbol of resilience, and has been adapted by other Native American nations.

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 tbsp. baking powder
• 3/4 cup milk or water
• Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Combine the flour, salt and baking powder in a bowl. Stir in the liquid until it forms a firm dough.

2. Roll the dough into palm-sized balls and press them into flat rounds.

3. Heat 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet. When a small piece of dough dropped into the oil sizzles, fry the pieces of dough until both sides turn golden brown. Use metal tongs to turn them.

4. Drain the fry bread on paper towels.

Tips & Warnings

• Serve fry bread plain or with honey, sugar, or top with seasoned meat, cheese and vegetables to make Indian tacos.

References

• Smithsonian.com; Frybread; Jen Miller
• Manataka American Indian Council; Fry Bread Recipes
• Food Network: Indian Fry Bread Courtesy of the Wooden Knife Company
• NMSU: The Long Walk