Description
This Homemade Navajo Taco recipe features crispy, golden fry bread topped with savory taco meat, chili beans, fresh veggies, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal that serves twelve in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Fry Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup hot water
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 1-2 inches deep in pan)
For the Toppings
- Chili beans (cooked or canned)
- Taco meat (ground beef or turkey, cooked and seasoned)
- Lettuce, shredded
- Tomatoes, diced
- Avocado, sliced or mashed
- Cheese, shredded (cheddar or Mexican blend recommended)
- Sour cream
- Salsa
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually add 3/4 cup hot water while stirring until a rough dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or skillet to a depth of 1-2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to approximately 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a small piece of dough is added.
- Shape the Dough: Divide the rested dough into 12 equal golf ball-sized portions. Using a rolling pin, roll each portion into a circle about 6-7 inches in diameter, ensuring they are evenly thick.
- Fry the Bread: Carefully place each dough circle into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the bread is puffed and golden brown. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip and remove from the oil. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place each piece of fry bread on serving plates. Top generously with taco meat, chili beans, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and salsa as desired. Serve immediately for optimal crispness and flavor.
Notes
- Keep an eye on oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked fry bread.
- For a vegetarian option, replace taco meat with seasoned beans or grilled vegetables.
- Fry bread is best served fresh but can be reheated in a hot oven to regain crispness.
- Adjust toppings to your preference; adding jalapeños or pickled onions can add extra flavor.
- Ensure the water is hot but not boiling when making dough to activate the baking powder effectively.
