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Navajo Taco Fry Bread Recipe

Navajo Taco Fry Bread Recipe - Quick Delicious Meals

Before diving into the wonderful world of Navajo taco fry bread, let’s talk about what complements this delicious dish. Think about a cold, refreshing drink to wash it down. A homemade lemonade or a chilled hibiscus tea can be perfect choices. 
If you're looking for something to nibble on alongside, a simple corn salad or a fresh fruit platter can balance the richness of the fry bread.
Now, let’s set the stage for a culinary adventure. You’re going to want to roll up your sleeves and dive into the delightful world of Navajo taco fry bread, a dish that combines rich flavors and tradition into a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 1102

Ingredients
  

Navajo Tacos
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter option
  • 2 teaspoons ground chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/8 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
  • 1 can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed 15-ounce
  • 1 can petite diced tomatoes, drained 14.5-ounce
  • 1 can mild diced green chilies 4-ounce
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
Indian Fry Bread
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 3 cups oil for frying
Toppings
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Diced Roma tomatoes
  • Shredded iceberg lettuce
  • Sliced black olives
  • Sliced ripe avocado
  • Fresh pico de gallo
  • Chopped cilantro

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Toppings
  1. Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft. Toss in the ground beef and cook until browned.
    Then, add all the spices: chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and chipotle chili powder. Stir to combine, letting the flavors meld for a few minutes.
    Next, incorporate the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, green chilies, and corn. Mix everything and allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes. This mixture should be flavorful and hearty.
Step 2: Make the Fry Bread Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Gradually add in the warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. You might need to use your hands to knead it gently for a minute or two until it becomes smooth.
Step 3: Roll Out and Fry the Bread
  1. Divide the dough into six equal pieces. On a floured surface, roll each piece into a circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
    Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place one rolled-out piece of dough in the oil. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Restrain yourself from eating them straight out of the oil, even though it’s tempting!
Step 4: Assemble Your Navajo Tacos
  1. Once the fry bread is crispy and golden, remove it from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Now, the fun part begins! Top each piece with the hearty mixture you made earlier and add any additional toppings you desire. Sour cream, diced tomatoes, and cheese will elevate the dish even more!

Notes

  • Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispiness. If it’s too cool, the bread will absorb too much oil.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add spices or veggies to the meat mixture. Black beans or chorizo can add exciting twists.
  • Make Ahead Options: You can prepare the filling ahead of time. Reheat it when you’re ready to fry the bread.
  • Serving Size: This recipe feeds about six, so feel free to scale it up or down as needed.
  • Store Longevity: Leftover fry bread can be reheated in the oven to bring back its crunch.