Fry Bread

Table of Contents

why make this recipe

Fry bread is a delicious and traditional dish that has roots in Native American culture. It is versatile and can be served as both a main dish or a side. Making fry bread gives you the chance to enjoy this delightful treat at home, and it pairs wonderfully with various toppings. Plus, it’s simple to make and can bring a comforting taste to any meal.

how to make Fry Bread

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried pinto beans, rinsed and drained or 1 16-ounce can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• Water
• 2 to 3 slices bacon, chopped and cooked
• 1 pound ground beef, cooked and drained
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup hot water (130°F)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Shredded lettuce
• Sour cream
• Chopped tomatoes
• Sliced avocados
• Shredded cheese

Directions:

1. Place the rinsed dried beans in a slow cooker and cover them with water. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the beans start to become tender.
2. Add the chopped bacon and ground beef to the slow cooker. Continue to cook on low for an additional 1 to 2 hours, or until the beans are fully tender. If using canned beans, combine them with the cooked ground beef and bacon and cook on low for 2 hours. Set this mixture aside.
3. To make the fry bread, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl. Add the hot water and mix until a sticky dough forms. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 200°F. Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan.
5. Roll the dough into balls and then flatten them into thin circles. Fry each piece in the hot oil until they are golden brown, about 20 seconds per side. Drain the fry bread on paper towels and keep warm in the oven.
6. Spread the bean mixture over the fry bread and top with your desired toppings before serving.

how to serve Fry Bread

Fry bread can be served warm, topped with the savory bean mixture. You can add shredded lettuce, sour cream, chopped tomatoes, sliced avocados, and shredded cheese on top to enhance the flavor. Serve it as a main dish or as a fun appetizer for gatherings.

how to store Fry Bread

To store fry bread, let it cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the bread. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for a month in the freezer.

tips to make Fry Bread

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve the perfect golden color.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy bread.
• Let the fried bread rest on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

variation

You can add different spices to the batter for added flavor, such as garlic powder or cayenne pepper. Instead of ground beef, try using shredded chicken or turkey. To make a sweet version, skip the savory toppings and sprinkle powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar on top of the fried bread.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of beans for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use black beans or kidney beans if you prefer.

Q: What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
A: You can cook the dried beans on the stove in a pot. Just make sure to keep an eye on them and add water as needed until they are tender.

Q: Can I make fry bread gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free fry bread.

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