The Navajo Nation is the largest American Indian tribe. New Mexico is part of its 17.5 million acres and we’ve been able to visit a portion of the reservation several times while living here. I think the first time I tried fry bread was when we visited the Four Corners Monument in 2011. There was a little food stand there and we just had to try some. We’ve had it multiple times since at home and at church gatherings. Below is the recipe I use from Pinterest (author unknown).
FRY BREAD RECIPE
4 c all purpose flour
1 TB baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 TB powdered milk
1 1/2 c warm water
1 c shortening
Extra flour for hands
Put flour in mixing bowl and add baking powder, salt, and powdered milk. Mix. Stir in warm water to form dough. Cover hands in flour and knead dough until soft and smooth. Cover dough and set aside for 15 minutes.
Shape dough into 2 inch balls and then flatten by hand or by rolling pin. Melt shortening about 1 inch deep in frying pan. When hot place a flattened piece of dough into the oil. Fry one side until golden brown and then flip to fry the other side. Place on a paper towel lined pan to soak up excess grease.
To serve as Navajo tacos top fry bread with taco meat, beans, cheese, sour cream, and chopped veggies.
Little House in the High Desert 