Description
Indian Fry Bread Tacos, also known as Navajo Tacos, combine crispy, golden-fried dough with savory seasoned ground beef and fresh taco toppings for a hearty, flavorful meal inspired by Native American and Tex-Mex cuisines. This recipe features homemade fry bread served warm and topped with classic taco ingredients such as lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions, perfect for a delicious family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Fry Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Taco Topping:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir in the warm water until a dough forms. Knead lightly until smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes. Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes to relax the gluten and improve texture.
- Shape the Fry Bread: Divide the rested dough into 4 to 6 equal balls. Flatten each ball into a disc approximately 6 inches wide, ensuring an even thickness for consistent frying.
- Fry the Bread: Heat about one inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Fry each dough disc one at a time, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and puff up slightly. Drain the fried breads on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Cook the Taco Meat: In another skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and half a cup of water, then simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place a piece of warm fry bread on a plate. Top with a generous portion of the seasoned taco meat, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions. Add hot sauce if desired for extra heat.
- Serve: Serve the fry bread tacos immediately for the best crispness and freshness. Enjoy this satisfying fusion of Native American and Tex-Mex flavors!
Notes
- The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours for convenience.
- For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the meat with refried or seasoned black beans.
- Serve the tacos immediately after assembly to maintain the fry bread’s crispy texture.
