A delightful fusion of Native American fry bread and classic taco fillings, these tacos offer a unique and satisfying meal experience. The fry bread is soft and slightly chewy, providing the perfect base for savory ground beef, fresh toppings, and creamy sour cream.
Ingredients:
For Fry Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup warm water
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Beef Topping:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- ¼ cup warm water
For Beans (optional):
- 2 cans (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
For Toppings:
- Crisp lettuce, chopped
- Bright red tomatoes, diced
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Fry Bread:
- Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Step 2: Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not overly wet.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 10 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender fry bread.
Beef Topping:
- Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
- Step 2: Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
- Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning and warm water. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Beans (optional):
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over low heat.
- Step 2: Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans, cumin, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- Step 3: Stir well and cook over low heat for 10 minutes, or until the beans are heated through and the flavors have combined. Mash a few of the beans with the back of a spoon to create a creamier texture, if desired.
Frying the Bread & Assembling Tacos:
- Step 1: Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
- Step 2: While the oil is heating, divide the dough into 4 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, shape each portion into a ½-inch thick round.
- Step 3: Carefully place one or two rounds of dough into the hot oil at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
- Step 4: Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Step 5: Remove the fry bread from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Step 6: To assemble the tacos, layer each piece of fry bread with crisp lettuce, seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for garnish.
- Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Indian Fry Bread Tacos are incredibly versatile. The fluffy fry bread provides a unique texture and flavor that elevates the classic taco. The recipe is customizable with your favorite toppings and fillings. It’s also a great way to introduce your family and friends to a different culinary tradition.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of homemade salsa or guacamole.
- Offer a variety of hot sauces for those who like a little extra heat.
- Pair with a refreshing Mexican soda or iced tea.
Tips:
- Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying the bread to prevent it from becoming greasy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying the bread, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy bread.
- If you don’t have time to make the fry bread from scratch, you can use store-bought naan bread or pita bread as a substitute.
- Get creative with your toppings! Try adding black olives, jalapenos, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: Approximately 600-800 per taco
- Protein: 30-40g
- Sodium: Varies depending on taco seasoning and toppings
Conclusion
These Soft and Fluffy Indian Fry Bread Tacos are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering. With their unique combination of flavors and textures, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy the process of creating your own version of this cultural fusion dish!
Q&A:
- Can I make the fry bread ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the fry bread ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh. If you do make it ahead, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat it in a warm oven or toaster oven before serving to restore some of its crispness.
- Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even seasoned tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
- You can easily make your own taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. There are many recipes online for homemade taco seasoning.
- Can I bake the fry bread instead of frying it?
- While the texture won’t be exactly the same, you can bake the bread for a slightly healthier option. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with olive oil or melted butter before baking.
- What are some other toppings that would go well with these tacos?
- The possibilities are endless! Consider adding guacamole, pico de gallo, roasted corn, pickled onions, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo for extra flavor.
