Cherokee Fry Bread
Cherokee fry bread offers a crispy, golden exterior with a soft interior, perfect for toppings or as a base for Indian tacos, enjoyed with sweet or savory accompaniments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Add the milk and mix well.
- Working with floured or greased hands, shape the dough into biscuit-sized shapes.
- Add more flour if needed to make the dough firm.
- Heat enough frying fat to cover half of the bread in a deep skillet or frying pan.
- Fry the bread until golden brown, turning once.
- Serve warm with honey, or as a base for Indian tacos with toppings.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture, ensure your dough isn't too sticky; add flour gradually until firm. If you're out of milk, water or a dairy-free milk can work as substitutes. For a flavor twist, try adding a pinch of sugar or spices like cinnamon to the dough. Fry bread can also be made with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with honey drizzled on top for a sweet treat or use as a base for Indian tacos, topped with your choice of ingredients like beans, cheese, and vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Vegetable Wedges or Wonderful Cucumber Dip for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or fry briefly in a pan until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherokee Fry Bread contains roughly 337 calories, with 5g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value) and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1201mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make fry bread using gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make fry bread. Be sure to check the blend's instructions, as some may require additional binding agents like xanthan gum. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
What frying fat is best for fry bread?
Traditionally, lard or vegetable shortening is used for frying fry bread, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil for a lighter flavor. Make sure the fat is hot enough before frying to get a crispy exterior.
How can I add flavor to my fry bread?
You can enhance the flavor of your fry bread by adding herbs or spices directly to the dough, such as garlic powder or paprika. Additionally, experimenting with different toppings such as salsa or guacamole can elevate the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).