fry bread
Crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy inside — this golden fry bread is quick, versatile, and deeply comforting.
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Rest Time: 10–15 minutes
Fry Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 30–40 minutes
Serves: 6–8 pieces
Ingredients
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1 tablespoon baking powder
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a sweeter dough)
-
¾ to 1 cup warm water (or milk)
-
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, melted butter, or lard
-
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dough
-
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
-
Flour
-
Baking powder
-
Salt
-
Sugar (if using)
-
-
Add oil and ¾ cup warm water (or milk). Stir with a wooden spoon or hands until dough starts to come together. Add more water 1 tablespoon at a time if too dry.
-
Gently knead just until a soft, pliable dough forms. Do not overmix, or the bread may become tough.
Step 2: Rest the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to shape and fry.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
-
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
-
Divide into 6–8 equal portions.
-
Roll or pat each piece into a round disk about ¼ inch thick.
Keep the center slightly thinner than the edges to help with even cooking.
Step 4: Fry the Bannock
-
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
-
Carefully place one piece of dough into the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until puffed and golden brown.
-
Flip using tongs and cook the other side until golden.
-
Drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining dough.
Safety Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches so the oil temperature stays consistent.
Storage & Reheating
-
Room Temp: Store cooled fry bread in a sealed container for up to 2 days.
-
Reheat: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
-
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as above.
Serving Ideas
-
Classic: Serve warm with butter and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
-
Savory: Use as a base for Indian tacos with ground beef, beans, lettuce, and cheese.
-
Sweet: Dust with cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar while warm.
-
Breakfast: Top with scrambled eggs, bacon, and salsa for a breakfast fry bread.
Nutritional Info (Per Piece – Approx. 1 of 8)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Nutrition may vary based on oil absorption and exact portion size.