Description
Indian Fry Bread Tacos are a classic Native American dish made by topping crispy, fluffy fry bread with taco-style toppings. The fry bread is deep-fried until golden brown and puffy, creating the perfect base for savory ground beef, refried beans, cheese, lettuce, and other toppings. This dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Fry Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water or milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for softer dough)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Taco Topping:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15 oz) can refried beans or pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional)
Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Make the Fry Bread:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add warm water (or milk) and mix until a soft dough forms. If using, add the 1 tbsp oil for softer fry bread.
- Knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces. Roll each into a ¼-inch thick circle.
- In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry each piece of dough for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed up. Drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Taco Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and ½ cup water. Simmer for 5 minutes, until thickened.
- Add the beans and stir until heated through.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Place a piece of fry bread on a plate.
- Spoon some beef and bean mixture over the top.
- Add desired toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and double the beans.
- Fry bread can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container. Reheat in an oven before serving.
- To make a sweeter version, sprinkle the fry bread with powdered sugar and honey instead of using savory toppings.