Picture this: the smell of sizzling dough fills the air, golden-brown and crispy Indian Fry Bread bubbling away, ready to be transformed into a masterpiece. That’s the beauty of Navajo Tacos—a comforting meal with endless possibilities! Whether you’re a fan of hearty beef, vibrant vegetables, or even a spicy kick, these customizable tacos are not only a feast for the taste buds but also an engaging way to gather friends and family around the table.
I discovered the joy of making these tacos when I was craving something hearty yet interactive to share with loved ones. The process of creating crispy fry bread as a base, then layering it with savory fillings, brings a playful twist to dinner that we all love. Plus, the beauty of this recipe is that it caters to everyone—gluten-free friends can still indulge, and vegetarians can easily swap in the fillings of their choice. Dive into this delightful culinary adventure and elevate your next meal with these Navajo Tacos that are sure to impress—tasty, easy, and endlessly customizable!
Why are Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread so beloved?
Customizable at its core: These tacos allow you to cater to every taste, whether you prefer savory beef or fresh veggies.
Interactive dining: Gather your friends and family for a fun taco bar where everyone can build their ideal taco.
Comfort food: Enjoy the warm, crispy, and chewy texture of Indian Fry Bread topped with your favorite fixings.
Quick and easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Diet-friendly: This recipe can easily be modified to fit gluten-free or vegetarian diets, ensuring everyone can partake in the deliciousness.
Delve into the diverse world of flavors and textures and explore other options, like Spicy Navajo Tacos, for an exciting twist!
Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread Ingredients
For the Fry Bread
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast; make sure it’s lukewarm to keep the yeast alive.
- Active Dry Yeast – Acts as a leavening agent for dough rise; instant yeast works as a substitute without any adjustments.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; a gluten-free flour blend is an excellent substitute.
- Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; don’t skip this ingredient!
- Baking Powder – Helps the dough rise; can be omitted if the yeast is properly active.
- Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness; optional if you prefer less sweetness.
- Vegetable Oil (for dough) – Ensures moisture and pliability; olive oil or melted coconut oil works too.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Used for frying the bread; any neutral oil like canola or peanut will do.
For the Filling
- Ground Beef or Turkey – Your primary protein choice; shredded chicken or a meat substitute works for vegetarians.
- Onion (finely chopped) – Adds flavor to the meat filling; omit for a milder taste.
- Taco Seasoning – Brings a burst of flavor; consider homemade seasoning for lower sodium.
- Refried Beans – Acts as a spread for added creaminess; try black beans for variety.
For Toppings
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds richness; swap for dairy-free cheese for vegan options.
- Shredded Lettuce – Brings freshness and crunch; any salad greens can work.
- Diced Tomato – Offers freshness and acidity; mix it up with other veggies if desired.
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess; Greek yogurt is a tasty tangy substitute.
- Salsa (optional) – Provides freshness and spice; guacamole can also be a great choice.
Gather these ingredients and prepare to embark on a flavorful journey making Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread that your family and friends will absolutely adore!
How to Make Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread
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Combine yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit until it becomes foamy, which should take about 5 minutes—this step ensures your dough will rise beautifully.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. This flour mix is essential for creating that great texture in your fry bread.
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Form the dough: Pour in the yeast mixture along with vegetable oil. Stir until the mixture comes together to form a sticky dough—this is the base of your delicious fry bread!
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Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Once done, cover it and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
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Sauté onions: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they’re translucent, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
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Cook the meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet with the onions. Sprinkle in taco seasoning and cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks so it’s perfectly seasoned and flavorful.
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Prepare the fry bread discs: After the dough has risen, divide it into 6-8 equal portions and shape each portion into discs. This will be the canvas for your taco masterpieces!
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Fry the bread: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet. Fry each disc for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy—watch as they puff up beautifully!
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Assemble your tacos: Take your crispy fry bread and spread a layer of refried beans. Top it with the cooked meat, cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomato, sour cream, and any other toppings you desire.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for an extra flavor kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Navajo Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain crispiness.
Fry Bread: If you have extra fry bread, keep it at room temperature for up to 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 2 days, wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unassembled fry bread in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before frying when ready to use.
Reheating: To reheat cooked meat, warm in the skillet over medium heat until heated through. Recrisp fry bread in a hot skillet for a few minutes before assembling fresh tacos.
Expert Tips for Navajo Tacos
- Yeast Activation: Ensure your water is lukewarm, as hot water can kill the yeast, preventing your fry bread from rising properly.
- Perfect Frying: Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F; too hot will burn the bread, while too cold will lead to greasy fry bread.
- Sticky Dough: Keep the dough slightly sticky for optimal fry bread texture—add a bit more flour only if it’s too wet to handle.
- Batch Frying: Fry the dough in smaller batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can result in uneven cooking.
- Layering Fillings: Be creative with your fillings! Experiment with different proteins or veggie options to make your Navajo Tacos uniquely yours.
What to Serve with Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread?
A delightful meal is just a few complementary dishes away, and Navajo Tacos offer the perfect base for a full spread that excites the palate.
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Crispy Corn Chips: The crunch of corn chips adds texture, inviting you to dive into salsa or guacamole for a satisfying dip.
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Fresh Mango Salsa: The sweetness and tang of fresh mango salsa perfectly contrasts the savory filling, enhancing each bite of the taco.
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Creamy Avocado Salad: Bright, creamy avocado salad brings a refreshing twist, balancing the heartiness of the fries and taco meat beautifully.
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Zesty Coleslaw: A crunchy, zesty coleslaw with a hint of lime complements the taco’s flavors while adding a crisp texture.
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Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: For heat lovers, homemade pickled jalapeños add a tangy punch that elevates the overall flavor experience.
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Chilled Cucumber Soup: Light and refreshing, a cucumber soup provides a cooling contrast to the warm, crispy tacos.
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Sweet Corn Esquites: This creamy corn salad with lime and cheese pairs splendidly with tacos, enhancing the meal’s vibrancy and flavor.
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Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing herbal iced tea, perhaps with mint or hibiscus, offers a soothing sip that rounds out the meal perfectly.
Elevate your taco night by thoughtfully pairing these sides, each a delightful part of your culinary adventure!
Make Ahead Options
These Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the fry bread dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and combining them with the activated yeast and oil. After kneading, cover the dough tightly and refrigerate. You can also cook the meat filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the dough until golden and heat the meat mixture until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade Navajo Tacos with minimal fuss during busy weeknights!
Navajo Tacos Variations
Customize your Navajo Tacos and unleash your inner chef with these delicious variations that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Chicken: Swap ground beef with grilled or shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter option that’s just as satisfying.
- Vegetarian: Use seasoned black beans, grilled corn, and sautéed peppers to create a colorful, tasty plant-based twist.
- Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce into the meat for a fiery kick that spice lovers will adore.
- Breakfast: Scramble eggs and layer them with crispy bacon and fresh avocado for a delightful brunch version that’ll wake up your palate.
- Seafood: Replace traditional meats with shrimp or flaky fish, and garnish with a squeeze of lime and chopped cilantro for a refreshing take.
- Barbecue: Toss pulled pork or chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce, then assemble with crunchy coleslaw for a sweet and tangy flavor explosion.
- Southwestern: Incorporate roasted corn, black olives, and fresh cilantro into the topping mix for a taste of the Southwest.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, skip the fry bread entirely and use large lettuce leaves to wrap your fillings for a crunchy, fresh taco.
Feel inspired? Let these variations take your Navajo Tacos to the next level, making every meal a fun exploration of flavors!
Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for the fry bread?
You can use all-purpose flour for a classic taste and texture. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend works beautifully as a substitute, allowing everyone to enjoy these delightful Navajo Tacos without hesitation!
How should I store leftover Navajo Tacos?
Leftover assembled tacos should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they are best enjoyed within 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispiness of the fry bread.
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Can I freeze the fry bread for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze unassembled fry bread, allow the discs to cool down after frying, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them before frying to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
What can I do if my yeast doesn’t activate?
If your yeast isn’t foaming after about 5 minutes, it may be inactive due to expired yeast or water temperature being too hot or too cold. To troubleshoot, start fresh with a new packet of yeast and ensure that your water is lukewarm (about 110°F). If it foams, continue with the recipe! If not, it’s best to get a new batch of yeast.
Are Navajo Tacos suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Certainly! You can easily make vegetarian Navajo Tacos by using seasoned black beans, grilled corn, or roasted vegetables as your filling. There’s a world of flavor when you customize your toppings to suit a plant-based approach. Plus, these toppings can add vibrant colors and textures that everyone will love!
What is the ideal oil temperature for frying the fry bread?
For the best results, maintain the oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F while frying. Too hot, and the bread will burn; too cool, and it will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy. A thermometer can come in handy here, but you can also test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface promptly!
Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread: Comfort Food Your Way
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix warm water and active dry yeast. Allow to sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar.
- Pour in the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Stir to form a sticky dough.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- Heat oil in a skillet and sauté chopped onions for about 3 minutes until translucent.
- Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet with onions and taco seasoning. Cook until browned.
- Divide the risen dough into 6-8 equal portions and shape into discs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet. Fry each disc for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Spread a layer of refried beans on the crispy fry bread. Top with cooked meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and toppings of choice.
