Fry Bread Tacos
If you’re on the lookout for a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the best of comfort food and culinary creativity, look no further than fry bread tacos. These delightful creations are a perfect blend of crispy, soft fry bread filled with savory beef and topped with an array of vibrant toppings. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends, fry bread tacos are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that celebrates a unique twist on traditional tacos!
Why It Works Every Time
Fry bread tacos are not just about the flavor; they are about the texture and the experience. The fry bread is crispy on the outside while remaining soft and chewy on the inside, creating the perfect vessel for your fillings. The seasoned ground beef adds depth and richness, complemented by fresh toppings that bring brightness and crunch. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish guarantees satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredient List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 can seasoned pinto beans
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- Sliced black olives
- Sour cream
- Salsa for topping
- Guacamole
- Pickled jalapenos
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Shredded Mexican blend cheese
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: For combining the fry bread ingredients.
- Frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the bread to golden perfection.
- Spatula: To flip the fry bread and serve the tacos.
- Cooking thermometer: To ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
- Serving platter: To arrange your beautifully assembled fry bread tacos.
Fry Bread Tacos: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Make the Fry Bread Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir the dry ingredients together until well mixed. Gradually add the milk, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. The thickness is key; too thin, and they’ll be crispy all the way through, too thick, and they won’t fry properly.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; if it bubbles and rises, it’s time to fry.
Step 4: Fry the Bread
Carefully place one or two pieces of the rolled-out dough into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the fry bread and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat this process until all pieces are fried.
Step 5: Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes before adding the seasoned pinto beans and salsa. Stir well to combine and heat through.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
To assemble your fry bread tacos, take a piece of fry bread and spoon the beef filling generously onto the center. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, a dollop of sour cream, additional salsa, guacamole, pickled jalapenos, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of shredded Mexican blend cheese.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your fry bread tacos warm and watch them disappear as friends and family dive into this comforting dish. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and textures, making every bite a delight!
Variations by Season
- Fall Flavors: Incorporate roasted pumpkin or squash into the beef filling for a seasonal twist.
- Summer Freshness: Use grilled vegetables or corn salsa as a topping for a light and refreshing option.
- Winter Warmth: Add hearty beans and spices like chipotle for a richer filling that warms the soul.
- Spring Greenery: Add fresh herbs like dill or basil to the toppings for a bright and vibrant flavor.
Author’s Commentary
Fry bread tacos hold a special place in my heart. They remind me of gatherings filled with laughter and the joy of sharing food. The combination of crispy fry bread, savory beef, and fresh toppings creates an experience that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Feel free to experiment with the fillings and toppings to make this dish your own. Each variation tells a story, and that’s what makes cooking so delightful!
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you’re planning for a busy week ahead, you can prepare the beef filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to assemble your tacos. The fry bread is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dough ahead of time and fry it just before serving for the ultimate crispy experience.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative, offering a lighter option while still being delicious. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as these meats can cook faster than beef.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour for the fry bread?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be tasty!
How do I keep the fry bread crispy after frying?
To maintain the crispiness of the fry bread, avoid stacking them on top of each other after frying. Instead, place them in a single layer on a wire rack. This allows air to circulate around them and keeps them from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze the fry bread for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the fried dough! Just ensure they are completely cooled, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be reheated in a hot oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
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- Ultimate Nachos with All the Fixings
- Savory Stuffed Peppers for a Wholesome Meal
That’s a Wrap
Fry bread tacos are not just a meal; they are an experience filled with flavors, textures, and memories. This dish is a celebration of culinary creativity found in kitchens everywhere. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your unique spin, the joy of making and sharing these tacos is what truly makes them special. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends or family over, and enjoy a delightful evening filled with laughter and delicious food. Happy cooking!
Fry Bread Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir the dry ingredients together until well mixed. Gradually add the milk, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place one or two pieces of the rolled-out dough into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Remove the fry bread and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat this process until all pieces are fried.
- In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes before adding the seasoned pinto beans and salsa. Stir well to combine and heat through.
- To assemble your fry bread tacos, take a piece of fry bread and spoon the beef filling generously onto the center. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, a dollop of sour cream, additional salsa, guacamole, pickled jalapenos, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Serve your fry bread tacos warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Prepare the beef filling in advance to save time.
- Fry bread is best enjoyed fresh; fry just before serving.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
