If you have a craving for something crispy, hearty, and bursting with bold flavors, you are going to absolutely adore this Indian Fry Bread Tacos Recipe. This dish brings together fluffy, golden-fried bread that’s soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, topped with a perfectly spiced combination of ground beef and savory pinto beans. The mixture of textures and robust tastes makes every bite a delightful party for your palate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a comforting meal, this Indian Fry Bread Tacos Recipe promises to be a fast favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are simple yet essential, each adding its own magic to the texture, flavor, and vibrant appeal of the dish. From the basics of flour and spices to the hearty beans and beef, every component plays a crucial role.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for the fry bread’s soft and chewy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough, balancing the taste.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the bread its beautiful puff and fluffiness when fried.
- 1 cup warm water: Brings the dough together smoothly, making it easy to handle.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Imparts that irresistible crispness and golden color to the fry bread.
- 2 15-ounce cans pinto beans (drained and rinsed): Adds creaminess and a hearty texture to your taco filling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to gently cook the beans and distribute spices evenly.
- 1 4-ounce can green chiles: Brings a mild heat and brightness to the beans.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Provides earthy, warm spice that complements the beans.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the seasoning in the bean mixture.
- 1/4 teaspoon black or white pepper: Adds subtle pungency and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Offers gentle sweetness to the filling without overpowering it.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The protein star that adds richness and satisfying flavor.
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Brings the classic Tex-Mex flavor punch that ties the filling together.
- 1/4 cup warm water: Helps the taco seasoning coat the beef evenly and keeps it juicy.
- Taco style toppings of choice: Customize your tacos with fresh veggies, cheese, salsa, or sour cream for extra flair.
How to Make Indian Fry Bread Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Start by combining the dry ingredients in a large bowl: all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Pour in the warm water and stir until the dough comes together in a slightly sticky ball. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest. This resting period allows the flour to hydrate fully, making the dough easier to roll out and ensuring a tender fry bread.
Step 2: Prepare the Bean Filling
While the dough rests, heat the olive oil on low and add the pinto beans, green chiles, cumin, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir everything gently, then cover and let it cook slowly for about 10 minutes. This gentle simmer lets the flavors meld beautifully, giving you a creamy, flavorful bean mixture that complements the richness of the beef perfectly.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, brown the ground beef in a hot skillet until no pink remains. Drain the fat, then reduce the heat to low. Add the taco seasoning along with the warm water and let it simmer for five minutes, stirring frequently. This step infuses the beef with authentic taco flavors while keeping it moist and tender for maximum flavor impact.
Step 4: Heat the Oil for Frying
Pour vegetable oil into a heavy pot to a depth of about 2 inches and heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If you have a deep fryer, that’s an excellent alternative for precise temperature control. Proper oil temperature is critical here; it ensures your fry bread cooks evenly and achieves a golden crisp without soaking up too much oil.
Step 5: Fry the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and divide the dough into four equal pieces. Shape each piece gently into a round, about half an inch thick. Using heat-safe spatulas or tongs, carefully lower the dough rounds into the hot oil. Fry each side until golden brown, about a few minutes per side. Be cautious during this step to avoid oil splatters—slow, steady handling is key!
Step 6: Drain and Repeat
Once each bread is beautifully golden, remove it and set it on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining dough. This method ensures every piece boasts that delightful crisp exterior and soft, pillowy interior that makes the fry bread so irresistible.
Step 7: Assemble Your Indian Fry Bread Tacos Recipe
Now comes the fun part: piling the warm fry bread with the seasoned beef and savory beans. Add your favorite taco toppings to build a taco that’s as personalized as it is tasty. This is where your creativity shines, so feel free to go classic or adventurous!
How to Serve Indian Fry Bread Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
Toppings elevate this dish wonderfully. Think fresh shredded lettuce, juicy diced tomatoes, sharp shredded cheese, tangy sour cream, and cooling guacamole. These garnishes add vibrant colors, textures, and layers of flavor that make every bite exciting and fresh.
Side Dishes
Pair these tacos with a crisp corn salad or a refreshing cucumber and lime salad to balance the richness of the fry bread and beef. A side of Mexican-style rice or black beans also makes a satisfying accompaniment that keeps the meal hearty and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the fry bread tacos buffet-style, letting everyone build their own masterpieces. You might also try layering ingredients in a taco salad bowl using broken pieces of fry bread as crunchy croutons. Presentation can turn this simple recipe into the centerpiece of any gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the fry bread separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day to keep that lovely crispness. Keep the beef and bean fillings refrigerated in sealed containers for up to three days.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked fry bread by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to one month. The seasoned beef and beans also freeze nicely in airtight containers, so you can enjoy this dish anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the fry bread in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore their crispy exterior. Reheat the meat and beans on the stove or microwave until piping hot. Combine them fresh just before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
What is Indian fry bread?
Indian fry bread is a traditional Native American bread made from simple dough fried until golden and puffy. It’s crispy on the outside and soft inside, often used as a base for various savory or sweet dishes, such as tacos or desserts.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it tightly wrapped for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling and frying to ensure better texture and easier handling.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, try substituting the ground beef with extra beans or seasoned lentils. You can also use shredded cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor twist.
How do I keep the fry bread from soaking up too much oil?
Maintaining the oil at a consistent 350 degrees Fahrenheit is key. If the oil is too cool, the bread will absorb more oil. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot to keep the temperature steady and fry the bread in small batches.
Are Indian Fry Bread Tacos Recipe spicy?
The level of spice depends on the taco seasoning and green chiles you choose, but generally, this recipe is mildly spiced. You can always adjust or add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce if you like more heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into warm, crispy fry bread piled high with seasoned beef, beans, and your favorite toppings. This Indian Fry Bread Tacos Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors that will bring comfort and excitement to your dinner table. I hope you try it soon and discover just how delightful and satisfying it can be to create and share this dish with loved ones.
Print
Indian Fry Bread Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Tacos
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American Indian Fusion
Description
Indian Fry Bread Tacos combine crispy, golden-fried bread with savory, seasoned ground beef and flavorful pinto beans topped with your choice of taco fixings. This recipe offers a delicious fusion of traditional fry bread and taco flavors, perfect for a satisfying and unique meal.
Ingredients
Fry Bread Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus additional for rolling)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup warm water
- vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches depth)
Bean Topping
- 2 15-ounce cans pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 4-ounce can green chiles
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black or white pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Ground Beef Seasoning
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup warm water
Additional
- Taco style toppings of choice (e.g., shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, avocado)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fry Bread Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the warm water and mix until a dough forms. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest while you prepare the toppings.
- Cook the Bean Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large pot over low heat. Add the drained pinto beans, green chiles, cumin, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir to combine, cover the pot, and cook on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the ground beef into the skillet and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Lower the heat, add taco seasoning and 1/4 cup warm water, and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to blend the flavors.
- Heat the Frying Oil: In a heavy pot, heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. You may use a deep fryer if preferred.
- Shape and Fry the Bread: On a floured surface, divide the dough into four equal pieces. Gently press one piece into a circle about 1/2 inch thick. Using a heat-safe spatula, carefully lower the dough into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on one side, then carefully flip and fry the other side. Use caution to avoid oil splashes.
- Drain the Fry Bread: Remove the fry bread with a slotted spatula and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining dough pieces.
- Assemble the Tacos: Top each warm fry bread with the seasoned ground beef, bean mixture, and your choice of taco toppings. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature stays around 350°F to achieve crispy, golden fry bread without being greasy.
- Use two heat-safe spatulas or tongs for safely flipping the fry bread in hot oil.
- Resting the dough is important for easier shaping and better texture.
- Choose taco toppings according to your preference to customize flavor.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for frying.
