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Indian Fry Bread Tacos

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Indian Fry Bread Tacos are a delicious fusion of Native American and Mexican flavors. They feature crispy, golden-brown fry bread topped with savory seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, melted cheese, and creamy sour cream. This dish, also known as Navajo Tacos, is a flavorful twist on traditional tacos, offering a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a cultural celebration, these tacos are guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

For the fry bread:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup warm water
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (plus more for frying)

For the taco filling:

  • 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup water

For toppings:

  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions
  • ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add warm water and vegetable oil, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each into a thin circle (about 6 inches wide).

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each piece of dough for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed. Drain on paper towels.

In a separate pan, cook the ground beef or shredded chicken over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

Top each fry bread with the seasoned meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and any additional toppings.

Serve warm and enjoy.

 

Notes

  • Oil Temperature Matters – Keep the frying oil at 350°F (175°C) to ensure crispy, non-greasy fry bread.
  • Let the Dough Rest – Allowing the dough to rest for 30 minutes makes it easier to roll and results in a lighter texture.
  • Customize the Seasoning – Adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika for a spicier or milder flavor.
  • Make It Ahead – The dough can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Fry bread can also be frozen and reheated later.
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free Options – Swap out meat for black beans, lentils, or sautéed mushrooms, and use a gluten-free flour blend for the fry bread.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/indian-fry-bread-tacos/