Name: Indian Frybread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Native American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup warm water; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Extra flour for dusting

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If you’ve ever longed for bread that’s impossibly crisp on the edges but soft and steamy in the middle, Indian Frybread is about to become your new culinary crush. With only a handful of everyday pantry staples, this classic Native American treat turns any meal into a little celebration. Whether you swipe off honey with your fingers, pile it high with taco fillings, or just marvel at its golden beauty straight from the skillet, Indian Frybread is simplicity and comfort rolled up into one unforgettable bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Indian Frybread so charming is its genuine simplicity; each ingredient does its part to achieve that signature puff and flavor. Here’s your quick guide to what you’ll need, and why it matters for perfect results every time.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the frybread, providing structure and that lovely chew.
Baking powder: Responsible for those irresistible bubbles and light texture, it’s the secret to perfect puffiness.
Salt: Essential for flavor, salt keeps the bread from tasting flat.
Warm water: Helps activate the baking powder and brings the dough together smoothly.
Vegetable oil: Adds a hint of richness to the dough and, of course, is crucial for that golden, crisp fry.
Extra flour (for dusting): Prevents sticking when you’re shaping and rolling out the dough, making things a lot easier (and less messy!).

How to Make Indian Frybread

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stirring everything well at this stage ensures an even rise and balanced flavor throughout your Indian Frybread. Take a moment to appreciate how straightforward these basics can turn into something so delicious.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Now, pour in the warm water and that first tablespoon of vegetable oil. Use a wooden spoon, or better yet, your hands for a more tactile approach. Mix until you have a soft dough; don’t worry if it’s a little sticky—this is what keeps your frybread tender. If the dough feels too stiff, add a tiny splash more warm water.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer your dough to a lightly floured surface. With gentle hands, knead it for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’re aiming for a smooth and soft ball, but try not to overwork it. The less you fuss with the dough, the lighter your Indian Frybread will be. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rest for half an hour; this little nap does wonders for texture and flavor.

Step 4: Shape the Frybread

After the dough has rested, divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each into a ball and then pat or roll each one out into a circle about 6 to 7 inches wide, keeping the thickness around 1/4 inch. Don’t worry about perfect circles—those rustic edges just add character!

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat 1 to 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet until it shimmers around 350°F. Carefully slide in one dough circle at a time. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes on each side—watch as they puff up and turn a gorgeous golden brown. Fish them out with tongs and drain on paper towels. Get ready for the irresistible smell to fill your kitchen!

How to Serve Indian Frybread

Garnishes

The sky’s the limit when it comes to topping your Indian Frybread. Sprinkle on a dusting of powdered sugar and drizzle generously with honey for a sweet treat, or pile high with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cheese, and taco meat for that full-blown Navajo taco experience. If you love a bit of heat, a quick squirt of hot sauce or pickled jalapeños is fabulous.

Side Dishes

Indian Frybread pairs beautifully with hearty sides. Think bowls of chili, roasted vegetables, or even a crisp corn and black bean salad. It’s also excellent served alongside creamy soups, making every bite an invitation to dunk and scoop up flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Cut smaller circles for adorable appetizer-sized frybreads, or shape the dough into triangles or ovals for something unexpected. Turn leftover pieces into a decadent dessert by making frybread sundaes: top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and even a few toasted pecans.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap each Indian Frybread tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 24 hours. While they’re at their best fresh, they stay tender for a day or so—just tuck them away somewhere cool and dry.

Freezing

Frybread freezes wonderfully. Lay the cooled pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag with parchment between each piece. Store for up to a month and thank yourself later for the quick snack.

Reheating

To bring back that just-fried magic, warm Indian Frybread in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, or pop in the toaster oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving—they’ll lose their signature crisp. Brush with a touch of fresh oil before reheating for maximum flakiness.

FAQs

What makes Indian Frybread different from other fried breads?

Indian Frybread is unique for its airy, chewy interior and crisp outside, thanks to the combination of baking powder and a short rest. Its history is deeply rooted in Native American culinary tradition, giving it a special place at the table.

Why did my frybread come out tough?

This usually happens if the dough has been overworked, or if too much flour was added. Go easy on kneading and make sure to stop once the dough is just smooth—it’ll reward you with a softer, puffier bite.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Absolutely! Swapping half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat gives a nuttier flavor and slightly denser texture. Just add a bit more water if needed, as whole wheat tends to soak up extra moisture.

Is it possible to make Indian Frybread gluten-free?

Yes, you can experiment with a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. The texture will be a bit different, but you’ll still get that satisfying crisp exterior if you follow the same basic steps.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

You can! Mix and knead the dough, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling out and frying for best results.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let the simplicity fool you—making Indian Frybread at home feels like sharing a bit of culinary magic. Whip up a batch the next time you want to add a golden, joyful note to your meal, and see how quickly it disappears from the table. You’re going to love discovering all the ways to enjoy this delicious tradition!

Indian Frybread Recipe

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4.8 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes resting time)
Yield: 4 frybreads 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Indian Frybread at home with this easy recipe. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, it’s perfect for both savory and sweet toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Extra flour for dusting

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Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in warm water and vegetable oil until a dough forms.
Knead Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface, knead for 3–4 minutes, then let rest for 30 minutes.
Shape and Fry: Divide dough, flatten into circles, fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Serve: Top with savory or sweet toppings and enjoy!