Indian Fry Bread

Authentic Indian Fry Bread Recipe - A Taste of India's Traditional Cuisine

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Indian Fry Bread is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a dessert. This crispy and fluffy bread is a popular Native American dish that has been enjoyed for generations.

History

Indian Fry Bread has a long history in Native American culture, with many tribes having their own variations of the recipe. It is often served at powwows, festivals, and other special occasions as a way to bring people together and celebrate their heritage.

Ingredients

3 cups of self-rising flour
0.67 cups of powdered sugar
0.33 cups of milk
1 cup of cold water
corn oil (for frying)

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine sugar and milk.
Add flour and mix well.
Gradually stir in water until the flour is moistened and the dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until well mixed.
Roll the dough into a 10-inch square with a thickness of about 0.5 inch.
Cut the dough into 12 rectangles.
In a deep saucepan, heat oil to 375°F (191°C).
Fry the dough for 2-3 minutes or until it turns medium brown, turning often.
Drain the fried dough on a paper towel and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Variations

Add herbs or spices to the dough for a savory twist.
Top the fry bread with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a sweet dessert.
Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version of the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the bread to ensure a crispy texture.

- Knead the dough well to ensure a smooth and elastic consistency.

- Be careful when frying the bread, as the oil can splatter.

- Serve the fry bread warm for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Indian Fry Bread can be served with a variety of toppings, such as honey, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or savory toppings like chili or cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Frying is the traditional cooking technique for Indian Fry Bread, but it can also be baked in the oven for a healthier alternative.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour.

- Almond milk or coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk.

Make Ahead Tips

Indian Fry Bread is best served fresh, but you can prepare the dough ahead of time and fry it just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Indian Fry Bread on a platter with a variety of toppings for guests to customize their own creations.

Pairing Recommendations

Indian Fry Bread pairs well with dishes like chili, stew, or soup for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Indian Fry Bread is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature and reheated in the oven or toaster oven.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Indian Fry Bread contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Indian Fry Bread contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Indian Fry Bread contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Indian Fry Bread contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Indian Fry Bread is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Indian Fry Bread contains gluten and may not be suitable for those with gluten allergies.

Summary

Indian Fry Bread is a delicious treat that is high in carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying and indulgent snack.

Summary

Indian Fry Bread is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, this crispy and fluffy bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living on a farm in the Midwest. My family had a close relationship with a Native American family who lived nearby, and they would often come over to visit and share food with us.

One day, Mrs. Whitefeather, the matriarch of the family, arrived at our doorstep with a basket full of ingredients. She had a big smile on her face as she handed me a piece of paper with a recipe written on it in her beautiful handwriting. It was for Indian Fry Bread, a traditional dish that her family had been making for generations.

I was fascinated by the recipe and eager to learn how to make it. Mrs. Whitefeather patiently showed me each step, from mixing the dough to shaping it into rounds and frying it in hot oil. The smell of the bread cooking filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the bread was golden brown and crispy, Mrs. Whitefeather sprinkled it with sugar and cinnamon before serving it to me. I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The bread was light and fluffy on the inside, with a delicious crunch on the outside. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that day on, Indian Fry Bread became a staple in our household. I would make it for my family on special occasions, and it always brought back memories of that day with Mrs. Whitefeather. Over the years, I perfected the recipe, adding my own twist with different toppings and fillings.

As I grew older, I continued to learn new recipes from Mrs. Whitefeather and other friends and neighbors. Each recipe had its own story and history, passed down through generations and cherished by those who shared it with me. Cooking became a way for me to connect with my community and preserve our traditions.

Now, as a grandmother myself, I take pride in passing down these recipes to the next generation. I teach my grandchildren how to make Indian Fry Bread, just as Mrs. Whitefeather taught me all those years ago. I watch as their eyes light up with excitement when they take their first bite, just like mine did so many years ago.

In a world that is constantly changing, these recipes are a link to our past and a way to keep our heritage alive. They are more than just food – they are a connection to our roots, a way to honor our ancestors and the traditions they passed down to us.

So the next time you make Indian Fry Bread, remember the story behind the recipe. Remember the hands that taught you how to make it, the love and care that went into each step. And most of all, remember the joy and connection that comes from sharing a meal with those you love.