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Pioneer Woman Navajo Fry Bread Recipe

Pioneer Woman Navajo Fry Bread Recipe


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4.6 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Navajo fry bread delivers a crispy golden canvas of Native American culinary heritage, inviting comfort and warmth with its simple flour-based magic. Each golden piece promises a delicious journey through traditional southwestern flavors you’ll savor with every delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • ½ cup milk (any type)
  • 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil or shortening, for frying

Dry Seasonings:

  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon fine salt

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil or shortening in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or heavy saucepan, filling it about 1 inch deep. Aim for a temperature of 350°F (177°C), using a deep-fry thermometer or testing with a wooden spoon handle or popcorn kernel to ensure proper heat.
  2. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually pour in milk, stirring until the ingredients form a cohesive dough.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead 3-4 times to develop slight elasticity. Divide the dough into four equal portions, rolling each into a smooth ball.
  4. Using a rolling pin, flatten each dough ball into a circular shape approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.3 centimeters) thick. Create a small indentation in the center of each circle to prevent excessive puffing during frying.
  5. Carefully lower 1-2 dough circles into the hot oil. Fry each piece for 1-2 minutes per side, watching for a golden-brown and crispy exterior.
  6. Remove the fried bread using a slotted spoon or spider skimmer. Place on paper towels to absorb excess oil, allowing them to drain and cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Check the oil temperature carefully to avoid burning or making bread too greasy. Maintaining 350°F ensures perfect golden-brown results every single time.
  • Handle the dough gently to keep bread soft and tender. Minimal kneading prevents tough textures that ruin the delicate bread experience.
  • Adjust dough thickness based on your cooking purpose. Thin dough works best for tacos, while thicker versions are perfect for standalone enjoyment.
  • Fry bread pieces individually to guarantee even cooking and consistent temperature. This technique helps maintain the oil’s heat and creates uniform golden surfaces.
  • Guarantee light and fluffy results by using fresh baking powder. Expired baking powder can deflate your bread’s potential and compromise its texture completely.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Breakfast
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg