Traditional Indian Fry Bread Recipe — Simple, Golden, and Delicious
Indian Fry Bread is a beloved classic with deep roots in Native American culture. With its golden, puffy exterior and soft, chewy interior, it’s the kind of comforting food that brings people together—whether it’s for a family meal, a powwow, or a quiet Sunday morning at home.
Simple to make and incredibly versatile, fry bread can be enjoyed sweet or savory. Use it as a base for Indian Tacos, or drizzle it with honey, cinnamon, or powdered sugar for a delicious treat.
Let’s walk through how to make this traditional recipe from scratch using just a few basic ingredients.
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the dough
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1 teaspoon baking powder – Gives the bread its light, airy texture
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½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor
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1 tablespoon sugar – Just a touch of sweetness
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¾ cup warm water – Helps activate the baking powder and brings the dough together
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Vegetable oil, for frying – Enough to fill a skillet with about 1½ inches of oil
Instructions:
1. Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk until everything is evenly distributed.
2. Add the water
Gradually pour in the warm water, mixing with a fork or your hands until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. You may not need the entire ¾ cup, or you might need a touch more—add water slowly and mix as you go.
3. Knead the dough
Lightly flour your hands and knead the dough on a clean surface for 2–3 minutes, just until smooth. Don’t overwork it; this bread is meant to be tender, not tough.
4. Let it rest
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step helps relax the gluten and makes the dough easier to shape.
5. Heat the oil
While the dough is resting, heat about 1½ inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. The oil should reach around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the surface within seconds.
6. Divide and shape
Divide the rested dough into 4–6 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, gently flatten and stretch each piece into a disc, about ¼ inch thick. You can use your hands or a rolling pin. Traditional fry bread isn’t perfectly round, so don’t stress about the shape.
7. Fry until golden
Carefully place one piece of dough into the hot oil. It should puff up and begin to turn golden brown. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side, flipping once, until both sides are crisp and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Serving Suggestions:
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Savory: Top with seasoned ground beef or chili, lettuce, tomato, shredded cheese, and sour cream for classic Indian tacos.
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Sweet: Drizzle with honey, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, or dust with powdered sugar for a dessert-style treat.
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Simple: Enjoy warm with a little butter on the side.
Tips for Perfect Fry Bread:
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Don’t over-knead the dough. Minimal handling keeps it soft.
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Keep the oil temperature steady—too cool, and the bread absorbs oil; too hot, and it burns quickly.
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You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
A Taste of Tradition
This traditional Indian Fry Bread recipe is more than just food—it’s a symbol of resilience and heritage. Whether you’re making it for the first time or the hundredth, it’s always a special experience. Warm, comforting, and endlessly customizable, fry bread is a staple that has stood the test of time—and once you try it, you’ll understand why.
