Description
Traditional Navajo Tacos served on homemade fry bread topped with seasoned ground beef, beans, and fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. This recipe combines crispy, fluffy fry bread with savory and zesty taco toppings for a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a family gathering or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Fry Bread:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm water
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2-3 cups)
For the Beef Topping:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (about 15 oz) pinto or black beans, drained
Toppings (as desired):
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Salsa
Instructions
- Prepare the Fry Bread Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Add ¾ cup of warm water and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax.
- Form the Dough Discs: After resting, divide the dough into 4 equal balls. Flatten each ball into a round disc about 5-6 inches in diameter, ensuring even thickness for uniform frying.
- Fry the Bread: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully place each dough disc into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and puffed, about 1-2 minutes per side, flipping once to cook both sides evenly. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Cook the Beef Topping: In a separate skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add one packet of taco seasoning and 1 can of drained pinto or black beans to the beef. Stir well and simmer on low heat until heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Navajo Tacos: Place each piece of warm fry bread on a plate. Top generously with the beef and bean mixture. Add your preferred toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
- Serve: Serve the Navajo Tacos warm immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Notes
- Make sure the oil temperature is hot enough for frying to ensure the bread puffs up and cooks evenly.
- Letting the dough rest for 30 minutes helps make the fry bread tender and easier to work with.
- You can customize toppings based on preference or dietary needs.
- Leftover fry bread can be reheated in a skillet briefly but is best fresh.
- This recipe serves 4 but can be easily doubled for a larger group.
