Cherokee Fry Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cherokee Fry Bread is the ultimate comfort food. It’s incredibly simple to make, with only a few ingredients needed to create a mouthwatering result. The bread itself is perfectly light and airy with a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft and fluffy interior. It can be served in countless ways – as a savory snack topped with ground beef, cheese, or lettuce, or as a sweet treat with syrup, honey, or powdered sugar. This bread also brings a rich cultural heritage to your kitchen, making it not just a meal but a piece of history.

Ingredients

• Oil for frying
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 cups water or milk (you may not need all of it)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the water or milk, starting with 1 ½ cups. Stir the mixture with a spoon or your hands until the dough begins to come together. Add more water or milk a little at a time until the dough is soft but not too sticky. It should be easy to handle but not overly wet.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for 2-3 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
3. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions, depending on how large you want your fry bread. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it out with your hands or a rolling pin until it forms a round, 1/4-inch thick disc. Be careful not to make it too thin, as the bread could become too crispy and break apart while frying.
4. Fry the Bread: Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil – it should sizzle immediately.
5. Cook the Fry Bread: Carefully slide each flattened dough disc into the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip the bread, ensuring both sides cook evenly.
6. Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove the fry bread from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve the fry bread warm, either plain or topped with your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 pieces
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Savory Fry Bread: Top your fry bread with seasoned meats like ground beef or chicken, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes for a quick and delicious taco alternative.
• Sweet Fry Bread: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey or maple syrup for a sweet treat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version of this fry bread.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: While fry bread is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It can also be wrapped in foil and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the fry bread in a hot skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side to crisp it back up. You can also microwave it for 10-15 seconds, but it may lose its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make variations of this fry bread, although the texture may change slightly.

Can I make fry bread without baking powder?

Baking powder helps the fry bread rise slightly and become airy. If you don’t have baking powder, you could try using a little bit of yeast, though the texture will be different.

What’s the best oil for frying fry bread?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil are all great options for frying fry bread. Choose an oil with a neutral flavor and a high smoke point for the best results.

How can I make my fry bread less oily?

Be sure the oil is hot enough before adding the dough – this helps the bread cook quickly, creating a crispy exterior and preventing it from soaking up too much oil.

Can I freeze fry bread?

Yes, you can freeze fry bread for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer bag. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or fry it again for a crispy result.

Can I make fry bread dough in advance?

You can make the dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to fry, let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and cooking.

How thick should the dough be?

The dough should be about 1/4-inch thick for the ideal texture. If it’s too thin, the fry bread will be too crispy, and if it’s too thick, it won’t cook evenly.

Can I bake the fry bread instead of frying it?

While fry bread is traditionally deep-fried, you can bake it in the oven for a lighter alternative. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the dough on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use milk instead of water?

Yes, you can use milk instead of water for a richer flavor and slightly softer texture. Whole milk or 2% milk works best.

How can I add flavor to the dough?

You can add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor. Experiment with your favorite seasonings to make the fry bread even more delicious.

Conclusion

Cherokee Fry Bread is an easy, delicious, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it savory or sweet, it’s a treat that brings a taste of Native American tradition to your kitchen. This simple recipe is perfect for quick snacks, family meals, or as a fun appetizer for gatherings. Fry it up fresh and enjoy the crispy, warm bread in all its glory!

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