Here’s a delicious recipe for Soft and Fluffy Indian Fry Bread Tacos — golden, pillowy rounds of fried dough topped with savory taco fillings. These are sometimes called “Navajo Tacos,” combining Indigenous-style fry bread with seasoned meat, beans, and fresh toppings. Comfort food at its best!
🌮 Soft & Fluffy Indian Fry Bread Tacos
Fry Bread Ingredients (Makes 6–8 pieces):
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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¾ cup warm water (plus more as needed)
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1–2 tablespoons milk or plain yogurt (optional, for extra softness)
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Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or shortening)
Taco Toppings:
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1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
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1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
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1 can refried or black beans (optional)
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Shredded lettuce
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Diced tomatoes
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Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
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Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
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Chopped green onions or cilantro
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Hot sauce or salsa
🫓 How to Make the Fry Bread:
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Mix the dough:
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In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Add warm water and (optional) milk/yogurt. Stir with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth (about 2–3 minutes). Dough should be soft, not sticky.
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Rest:
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Cover dough with a towel and let rest for 20–30 minutes.
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Shape:
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Divide into 6–8 balls.
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Roll or pat each into a ¼-inch thick disc (about 5–6 inches wide).
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Fry:
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Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet (to ~350°F/175°C).
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Fry one at a time until golden brown and puffy — about 1–2 minutes per side.
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Drain on paper towels and keep warm.
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🍖 Prepare the Taco Filling:
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Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain fat.
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Add taco seasoning and a splash of water; simmer until thickened.
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Warm beans if using, and prep your toppings.
🌮 Assemble the Tacos:
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Place fry bread on a plate.
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Top with seasoned meat, beans, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite taco toppings.
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Serve warm — best eaten fresh!
✅ Tips & Variations:
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Make it vegetarian with black beans, avocado, or sautéed veggies.
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For dessert fry bread, dust with cinnamon sugar and serve with honey.
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Dough can be made ahead and kept in the fridge up to 24 hours.
Would you like a printable version or gluten-free adaptation?