Homemade Fry Bread Recipe
This Homemade Fry Bread recipe delivers a classic chewy and golden fried bread that’s perfect for a snack or accompaniment. Made from simple pantry staples, the dough is rolled into circles with a small hole in the center and fried until puffed and golden crispy. Serve warm with butter, honey, and a splash of fresh lemon juice for a delightful taste experience.
- Author: Rita
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 fry breads 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Native American
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup nonfat dry milk powder
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4–1/2 teaspoons shortening
- 2/3 to 3/4 cup water
For Frying
- Oil for deep-fat frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Optional Toppings
- Butter
- Honey
- Fresh lemon juice
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, nonfat dry milk powder, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the shortening using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form Dough Balls: Gradually add 2/3 to 3/4 cup of water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a firm dough ball forms. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Shape the Fry Bread: Roll each dough ball into a 6-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Using a sharp knife, cut a small 1/2-inch diameter hole into the center of each circle to allow for even frying and puffing.
- Heat Oil for Frying: In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat enough oil over medium-high heat to submerge the fry bread partially. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
- Fry the Bread: Fry each dough circle one at a time in the hot oil, cooking for about 1 minute on each side or until puffed and golden brown. Use tongs to flip carefully. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried bread from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm, optionally topped with butter, honey, and a drizzle of fresh lemon juice for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- The hole in the center prevents the bread from puffing unevenly during frying.
- Keep the oil temperature steady to avoid greasy or undercooked bread.
- Shortening can be substituted with vegetable shortening or lard for traditional flavor.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and best frying results.
- Fry bread is best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be reheated in a skillet.
Keywords: Fry Bread, Homemade Fry Bread, Native American Fry Bread, Fried Bread Recipe, Easy Fry Bread