Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying, or as needed
- 1 cup unbleached flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon powdered milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
Reasons You'll Love It
This bread has a warm, crispy outside and a soft, fluffy inside. It’s a comforting treat that brings people together. The simple ingredients create a rich, traditional flavor that feels like home.
Kitchen Advice
- Use oil that is hot but not smoking to get a golden crust without burning.
- Don’t overwork the dough; knead just until smooth for a light texture.
- Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and the bread evenly cooked.
- Don’t overwork the dough; knead just until smooth for a light texture.
- Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and the bread evenly cooked.
Directions
Heat some oil in a heavy skillet until it reaches about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, powdered milk, and salt. Slowly add the water to the dry ingredients and stir everything until it comes together into a sticky dough. Sprinkle some flour on your hands and shape the dough into a ball. Carefully drop the dough into the hot oil and cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until it turns golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the fry bread to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra oil. Let it cool just a bit before enjoying!
Creative Serving Ideas
Serve warm with honey, powdered sugar, or savory toppings like beans, cheese, and meat. It also pairs well with stews or can be used as a base for tacos for a hearty meal.
Leftover Care Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To refresh, warm the bread in a skillet or oven to bring back its crispiness. Avoid refrigerating as it can make the bread tough.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use if I don’t have powdered milk?
You can substitute powdered milk with an equal amount of regular milk or leave it out, but the texture may be slightly different.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
The oil should be about 350°F; you can test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly.
Can I bake this dough instead of frying it?
Traditional fry bread is fried for its texture, but you can bake it at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes for a lighter option.
How do I store leftover fry bread?
Store cooled fry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat in a skillet to keep it crispy.
Why is my fry bread dough sticky?
The dough is meant to be sticky to keep it soft and light after frying; use floured hands to shape it easily.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of unbleached flour?
Yes, but whole wheat flour may make the bread denser and change the flavor slightly.
What should I serve with this bread?
It’s great with honey, powdered sugar, or savory toppings like beans, cheese, and meat.
How thick should I make the dough before frying?
Shape the dough into a ball and flatten it slightly to about ½ inch thick before frying for best results.
