Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread: A Flavorful Southwestern Delight

Experience the taste of the Southwest with Navajo Tacos featuring Indian Fry Bread. This iconic dish combines crispy fry bread with savory taco toppings, creating a mouthwatering fusion of flavors and textures. Whether you’re craving a satisfying weeknight dinner or planning a festive gathering with friends and family, Navajo Tacos are sure to impress. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant landscapes of the Southwest and indulge in the deliciousness of this beloved comfort food.

Ingredients:

Indian Fry Bread:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• Vegetable oil for frying

Taco Toppings:

• 1 pound ground beef or chuck
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• Optional toppings: sliced black olives, diced red onion, fresh cilantro, salsa

Instructions:

Indian Fry Bread:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the flour mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Flatten each dough ball into a thin disk, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Carefully place the flattened dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and puffed, turning once, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Transfer the fry bread to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining dough portions.

Taco Toppings:

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the drained and rinsed pinto beans to the skillet with the cooked ground beef.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning packet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. To assemble the Navajo Tacos, place a piece of Indian Fry Bread on a plate.
5. Top with the seasoned ground beef and bean mixture.
6. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and any optional toppings of your choice.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness of Navajo Tacos!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• For a healthier version, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Experiment with different taco seasoning blends or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
• Substitute the pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile.
• Get creative with toppings and try diced avocado, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I make the Indian Fry Bread ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the Indian Fry Bread dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let the dough come to room temperature before frying.

Q: Can I freeze the Indian Fry Bread?

A: Yes, you can freeze the Indian Fry Bread for later use. Once fried, let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw the bread in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven or toaster oven until heated through.

Q: How can I make a keto-friendly version of Navajo Tacos?

A: For a keto-friendly version, you can use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour for the Indian Fry Bread. Replace the pinto beans with cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage, and omit the taco seasoning packet or use a homemade keto-friendly version.

Q: What can I serve with Navajo Tacos?

A: Navajo Tacos are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with Spanish rice, guacamole, or a side of corn salad for a complete meal.

Navajo Tacos with Indian Fry Bread are a celebration of Southwestern flavors and culinary creativity. With crispy fry bread as the base and a medley of savory taco toppings, this dish offers a delicious twist on traditional tacos. Whether enjoyed as a hearty dinner or served at a festive gathering, Navajo Tacos are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave your taste buds craving for more. So gather your ingredients, heat up the skillet, and embark on a culinary adventure with this delicious Southwestern delight!