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A piece of traditional Indian fry bread, golden brown and fluffy, fried to perfection.
Summer Dempsey

Arizona Navajo Fry Bread

This Indian fry bread recipe creates soft, pillowy bread with a perfectly golden, crispy exterior—an easy homemade comfort food that’s perfect for savory tacos or sweet toppings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 6 fry breads
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 260

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour add more if needed
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 ½ cups warm milk
  • Neutral oil for frying vegetable or canola

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
  2. Pour in 1 ½ cups of the warm milk, then add in the butter. Stir with a wooden spoon or fork until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t rush this step — the dough will look rough at first, and that’s exactly what you want.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead just 1–2 minutes. This isn’t bread dough — you’re not developing gluten here. You’re simply bringing it together until it’s soft and smooth.
  4. What you’re looking for: Soft and pliable, Smooth on the surface, Not sticky to the touch.
  5. If the dough feels sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time. If it feels dry, sprinkle in milk 1 teaspoon at a time. Trust your hands more than the measurements here.
  6. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 20–30 minutes. This step matters. Resting allows the flour to fully hydrate and relaxes the dough, making it easy to roll and helping those beautiful bubbles form in the oil.
  7. While the dough rests, heat 1½–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350–365°F. The oil should be hot enough that the bread bubbles immediately, but not so hot that it browns too quickly.
  8. Divide the rested dough into about 5-6 equal balls. Working one at a time, gently flatten each piece into a thin round, about ¼- ⅛ inch thick (depending on preference) Use your fingers or a rolling pin — no need to be perfect. Poke a small hole in the center to help it cook evenly.
  9. Carefully place the dough into the hot oil. Fry for 30–45 seconds per side, flipping once large bubbles form and the underside turns golden brown. The bread should puff up, blister, and crisp beautifully.
  10. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate and repeat with remaining dough.

Notes

  • Oil temperature matters: Keep the oil around 350°F for best results. If it’s too cool, the bread will absorb oil and turn greasy. If it’s too hot, it will brown too quickly without cooking through.
  • Dough consistency is key: The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not sticky. Add a little extra flour if needed, but avoid overworking the dough.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry one piece at a time (or two max) to maintain consistent oil temperature and even cooking.
  • Use your hands to shape: Gently stretch the dough instead of rolling it out. This helps create those classic bubbles and soft texture.
  • Serve immediately for best texture: Fry bread is best enjoyed warm while the outside is still slightly crisp and the inside is soft.
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