Navajo Tacos (Indian Fry Bread)

Navajo Tacos, often called Indian Fry Bread Tacos, present a delightful blend of Native American and Mexican culinary traditions. This dish offers a versatile base that can be topped with a variety of flavors, ranging from savory to sweet. Below is a detailed recipe for making these delicious tacos, perfect for family gatherings or a unique twist on taco night.

Ingredients

For the Fry Bread:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons softened butter or ghee
• 1 ¼ cup whole milk
• 3 cups vegetable oil for frying

Savory Toppings:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 2 tbsp steak fajita seasoning or homemade taco seasoning
• 15 oz black beans, drained
• 2 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded
• 3 plum tomatoes, diced
• Sour cream
• Queso sauce or shredded cheese of choice

Sweet Version:

• Honey
• Powdered sugar

Directions

1. Make the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Create a well in the center of the flour mixture, pour in the milk, and knead until a soft dough forms.
   • Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
2. Form Dough:
   • Roll the dough into a log, then divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball.
   • Flatten each ball into a 6-inch circle. Prick each circle a few times with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much during frying.
3. Fry:
   • Heat the vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep frying pan.
   • Fry each dough circle for about 30 seconds on one side, then flip and fold into a taco shell shape, continuing to fry until golden brown and crispy.
4. Prepare Toppings:
   • If opting for savory tacos, brown the ground beef with the taco seasoning in a skillet.
   • Prepare the remaining toppings such as the lettuce, tomatoes, and beans.
5. Assemble Tacos:
   • For savory tacos, load each piece of fry bread with beef, black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of cheese.
   • For a sweet variation, simply drizzle honey over the fry bread and dust with powdered sugar.

Cooking Notes:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 12 tacos

Navajo Tacos provide a fantastic way to explore different toppings and flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and savory or light and sweet, the versatile Indian Fry Bread makes an excellent base for any topping. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!