This is a delightful recipe that brings together the delicious flavors of Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread. It's a combination of succulent ground beef, aromatic spices, and hearty beans, all served on a warm and fluffy fry bread. It's an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite. Perfect for any time of the day, it's a dish that's going to be a hit with everyone.
The ingredients for this recipe are very common and can be found in most supermarkets. However, for the Navajo Fry Bread, you will need rapid rise yeast, which is different from regular yeast. It's designed to work faster and doesn't need to be proofed before using. Also, you'll need kidney beans and green chili for the taco filling. These ingredients are generally canned and can be found in the canned goods section. If not, substitute with other types of beans or chilies as per your taste preference.
Ingredients for the Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread Recipe
Olive oil: A common cooking oil used for sautéing onions and garlic.
Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
Garlic: Gives a strong, pungent flavor.
Ground beef: The primary source of protein in this recipe.
Chili powder, cumin, paprika: Spices that add heat and depth to the dish.
Kidney beans: A hearty and nutritious ingredient.
Tomatoes: Gives a tangy, sweet flavor and adds moisture.
Green chili: Adds a spicy kick.
Lettuce, cheddar, roma tomatoes, sour cream, black olives, cilantro: Used for toppings, these add a variety of flavors and textures.
All-purpose flour, baking powder, rapid rise yeast, salt, milk, butter: Ingredients for the Indian Fry Bread, which creates a soft, fluffy base for the tacos.
One reader, Donielle Usher says:
The Navajo tacos and Indian fry bread recipe is a game-changer! The fry bread was fluffy and delicious, and the taco filling was bursting with flavor. It's a fantastic dish that's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread
How to prepare Navajo taco filling: Saute onions and garlic, then brown the ground beef and season with spices. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and green chilis, then simmer until flavors meld together.
How to make Navajo fry bread: Combine dry ingredients, then mix in warm milk and melted butter to form a sticky dough. Rest the dough, then divide and shape into circles. Fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels before serving.
How To Make Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread
With this Navajo Tacos, you get tender Indian fry bread topped with cumin and paprika-seasoned beef and veggies to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspolive oil
- ¾cupyellow onion,diced
- 2clovesgarlic,finely minced
- 1lbground beef,lean
- 2tspchili powder
- 1tspcumin,ground
- ½tsppaprika
- 15ozkidney beans,(1 can) dark red, drained and rinsed
- 14½oztomatoes,(1 can) petite diced, drained,
- 4ozgreen chili,(1 can) diced
- salt and pepper,to taste
For Serving:
- lettuce,romaine or iceberg, chopped
- cheddar,or monterey jack cheese, shredded
- roma tomatoes,diced
- sour cream
- black olives,sliced, optional
- cilantro,chopped, optional
For Navajo Fry Bread:
- 2¼cupsall-purpose flour
- 2tspbaking powder
- ½tsprapid rise yeast,or active dry yeast
- ½tspsalt
- 1cupmilk,(110 degrees F) warm
- 1tbspbutter,or shortening, melted
- vegetable oil,for frying
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and saute for 2 minutes, add garlic and saute for 20 seconds. Scoot mixture to the side then crumble beef into skillet.
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Season with salt and pepper and cook stirring occasionally and breaking up beef when stirring, until beef has browned and cooked through. Drain fat from beef and return to skillet.
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Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, kidney beans, canned diced tomatoes and green chilis then season mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
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Cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
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Using a slotted spoon, spoon mixture over fry bread, then top with lettuce, cheese, tomatoes and sour cream (and any of the other optional toppings listed). Serve immediately.
Navajo Fry Bread:
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, yeast and salt. Whisk melted butter into warm milk and pour milk mixture into dry ingredients.
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Stir until mixture comes together and slightly forms a ball, dough should be fairly sticky (if needed add in a little more flour or a little more water to reach a good consistency but try not to overwork the dough).
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Cover dough with plastic wrap and allow to rest 5 to 10 minutes.
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Heat 1-inch of oil in a large cast iron skillet to 350 to 360 degrees F over stove top.
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Divide rested dough into 8 equal pieces.
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Working with floured hands and one piece of dough at a time (keep other pieces covered with plastic wrap), pat dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 6-inch circle and gently drop into hot oil, and cook until golden brown, then flip and cook opposite side until golden brown.
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Remove from oil and drain onto a plate or baking sheet lined with paper towels.
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Serve warm with Navajo taco filling.
Nutrition
- Calories: 741.59kcal
- Fat: 26.94g
- Saturated Fat: 8.57g
- Trans Fat: 1.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.82g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.31g
- Carbohydrates: 88.92g
- Fiber: 21.25g
- Sugar: 7.52g
- Protein: 37.63g
- Cholesterol: 62.83mg
- Sodium: 836.44mg
- Calcium: 312.26mg
- Potassium: 1628.70mg
- Iron: 10.73mg
- Vitamin A: 108.24µg
- Vitamin C: 61.18mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Indian Fry Bread
When making the Navajo fry bread, it's important to avoid overworking the dough. Overmixing can lead to the development of too much gluten, which will make the bread tough instead of light and fluffy. Also, when frying the bread, ensure the oil is at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the bread will brown too quickly on the outside before it's fully cooked on the inside. Conversely, if the oil is not hot enough, the bread will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Using a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature between 350 to 360 degrees F will help achieve the perfect golden brown fry bread.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Multitask: While the filling simmers, prepare the fry bread to save time and maximize efficiency.
Organize: Keep your work area tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for ingredients and utensils.
Use canned ingredients: Utilize canned tomatoes and beans to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity of the filling and freeze the extra for a quick and easy meal in the future.
Efficient frying: Fry multiple pieces of fry bread simultaneously to expedite the cooking process.
Plan ahead: Create a meal plan for the week to streamline grocery shopping and meal preparation.
One-pot cooking: Consider using a pressure cooker or slow cooker to simplify the cooking process and minimize cleanup.
Prep station: Set up a designated prep station with all necessary ingredients and tools to work efficiently.
Substitute Ingredients For Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in this recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions, and they will work well in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef and can be used as a healthier substitute in this recipe.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika and cayenne: A combination of paprika and cayenne can mimic the flavor and heat of chili powder in this recipe.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a similar earthy and citrusy flavor.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
kidney beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans can be used as a substitute for kidney beans, offering a similar texture and taste in the recipe.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a convenient substitute for fresh tomatoes, especially when they are not in season.
green chili - Substitute with jalapeño peppers: Jalapeño peppers can provide a similar level of heat and flavor to green chilies in the recipe.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for regular flour, making the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: A combination of baking soda and cream of tartar can replace baking powder in the recipe.
rapid rise yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast can be used as a substitute for rapid rise yeast by adjusting the proofing time accordingly.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to regular milk in the recipe.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for butter, providing a rich and nutty flavor to the fry bread.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil, offering a neutral flavor and high smoke point for frying.
Storing and Freezing Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Navajo tacos and Indian fry bread:
- Allow the Navajo taco filling to cool completely before storing. Transfer the cooled filling to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the Navajo taco filling:
- Portion the cooled filling into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, thaw the filling in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
- For the Indian fry bread:
- Store leftover fry bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- To maintain the fry bread's crispiness, avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as it may become soggy.
- If you need to store the fry bread for longer, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Freeze the wrapped fry bread for up to 1 month.
- To reheat frozen fry bread, unwrap the desired number of pieces and place them on a baking sheet. Warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
- When reheating Navajo tacos, assemble the tacos with the warmed filling and toppings on the reheated fry bread just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread
To reheat leftover Navajo tacos, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tacos on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture and prevents the fry bread from becoming too crispy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the Navajo tacos in a microwave. Place the tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. The damp paper towel helps prevent the fry bread from drying out.
For leftover Indian fry bread, you can reheat it in a toaster oven or a conventional oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the fry bread on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and heated through. This method helps restore the crispy texture of the fry bread.
If you prefer a softer texture for your leftover Indian fry bread, wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. The steam from the damp paper towel will soften the fry bread while reheating it.
To reheat the Navajo taco filling separately, transfer it to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to prevent the filling from drying out.
If you have leftover toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, or sour cream, it's best to store them separately and add them to the reheated Navajo tacos just before serving. This helps maintain the freshness and texture of the toppings.
Interesting Trivia About Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread
Navajo tacos and Indian fry bread are popular dishes in the Southwestern United States, particularly among the Navajo people. The Navajo taco is a delicious combination of seasoned ground beef, beans, and toppings served on a crispy fry bread. This dish is a fusion of traditional Navajo cuisine and Hispanic influences, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the region. The fry bread itself has a fascinating history, as it originated from the rations provided to the Navajo people during their forced relocation by the US government in the 1860s. Today, it has become a beloved staple in Southwestern cuisine.
Is Making Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread at Home Cost-Effective?
This Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The combination of ground beef, kidney beans, and canned tomatoes makes for an affordable yet flavorful filling. The use of simple pantry staples like flour, yeast, and milk for the fry bread keeps the cost down. With the ability to customize the toppings based on what's on hand, this recipe offers flexibility and value. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly meal option.
Are Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe uses ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
- Fry bread is deep-fried, adding a significant amount of unhealthy fats to the dish.
- Toppings like cheddar cheese and sour cream are high in saturated fat and calories.
- The recipe lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal.
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:
- Kidney beans, which are a good source of protein and fiber.
- Tomatoes and green chilis, which provide some vitamins and minerals.
- Onions and garlic, which offer some health benefits.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu or lentils. This will reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories in the dish.
- Instead of deep-frying the fry bread, try baking it in the oven or using a healthier cooking method like grilling or air frying. This will significantly reduce the amount of unhealthy fats in the recipe.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the recipe by adding more tomatoes, lettuce, and other nutrient-dense options like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. This will boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the dish.
- Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese and sour cream, or use smaller amounts of these toppings to decrease the saturated fat and calorie content.
- Consider using whole wheat flour for the fry bread to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
Editor's Opinion on Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread
This recipe for Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The savory and aromatic beef mixture pairs perfectly with the light and fluffy fry bread. The use of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika adds depth to the dish, while the toppings provide freshness and creaminess. The fry bread is beautifully golden and crispy on the outside, yet soft and pillowy on the inside. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and comforting meal that is sure to please the palate.
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Why trust this Navajo Tacos and Indian Fry Bread Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, creating a satisfying and authentic Navajo Tacos experience. The savory ground beef is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, while the Indian Fry Bread is light, fluffy, and perfectly golden. The use of fresh ingredients such as roma tomatoes, cilantro, and black olives adds a burst of vibrant colors and flavors. With its carefully crafted steps and attention to detail, this recipe promises a delightful culinary journey that users can trust to elevate their dining experience.
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