Homemade Fry Bread Recipe

Introduction

Homemade fry bread is a simple and satisfying treat that brings a warm, crispy texture with every bite. This quick recipe uses basic pantry ingredients to create a soft, golden bread perfect for snacks or toppings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• About 3/4 cup water
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Step 2: Gradually add water and mix until a soft, sticky dough forms.
3. Step 3: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly to bring it together.
4. Step 4: Divide the dough into equal portions and gently shape each into a round disc about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Step 5: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
6. Step 6: Fry each dough disc until golden brown and puffed, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Step 7: Remove from oil and drain on paper towels before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a sweeter twist, sprinkle fry bread with cinnamon sugar right after frying.
• Try adding minced garlic or herbs to the dough for a savory flavor.
• Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for even frying.
• If dough is too sticky, add a little more flour to make handling easier.

Storage

Fry bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm briefly in a skillet or oven to restore crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake fry bread instead of frying it?

While fry bread is traditionally fried to achieve its signature crispness, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes on a greased baking sheet. The texture will be softer and less crispy than fried.

What oil is best for frying fry bread?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, to ensure safe frying and a clean flavor.

Homemade Fry Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 586 reviews

This classic Homemade Fry Bread recipe delivers soft, golden, and crispy fried bread that’s perfect as a side or base for various toppings. Made with simple pantry ingredients like flour, baking powder, salt, and water, it’s an easy and satisfying comfort food often enjoyed in Native American cuisine.

• Author: Lila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 pieces 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Native American

Ingredients

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Dough Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm water
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the warm water while stirring until the dough comes together into a soft, slightly sticky ball. Knead lightly on a floured surface for about 3-4 minutes to ensure elasticity.
2. Shape the dough: Divide the dough into 6 to 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into discs about 5-6 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation or a hole in the center of each disc to help frying evenly.
3. Heat the oil: In a heavy skillet or deep frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to be about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough; it should sizzle and float.
4. Fry the bread: Carefully place one disc of dough into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on one side, or until it turns golden brown. Flip carefully and fry the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden and cooked through. Adjust heat as necessary to prevent burning.
5. Drain and serve: Remove the fried bread with a slotted spoon and set on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm as is or topped with honey, powdered sugar, savory taco-style fillings, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

• Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent for even cooking—too hot will brown the outside quickly without cooking inside.
• For softer fry bread, avoid over-kneading the dough.
• Fry bread is best served fresh but can be reheated briefly in a skillet or oven.
• Try topping with beans, cheese, lettuce, and salsa for a delicious Navajo taco.

Keywords: Fry Bread, Homemade Fry Bread, Fried Bread Recipe, Native American Fry Bread, Easy Fry Bread